Winter Storm Warning Issued for Eastern Upper Michigan: Up to 3 Feet of Snow and Ice Expected

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Gaylord, MI, has issued a Winter Storm Warning for portions of Eastern Upper Michigan. This alert, classified as severe, indicates that heavy mixed precipitation and hazardous conditions are likely to impact the region.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the following geographic regions:

• Chippewa County: Western, Central, and Southeast Chippewa
• Mackinac County: Western and Eastern Mackinac, including Mackinac Island and Bois Blanc Island

Specific localized impacts are expected west of Interstate 75, where the heaviest snow accumulations will occur, and near Drummond Island, which is forecast to see the greatest ice accumulations.

What You Should Do

Travel could be nearly impossible during the peak of the storm. If you must travel, the National Weather Service advises keeping an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. Residents should also prepare for potential power outages and tree damage caused by ice and gusty winds.

Expected Conditions

• Snow and Sleet: Total accumulations are forecast between 1 and 3 feet.
• Ice Accumulation: Approximately one-quarter of an inch of ice is expected.
• Wind: Gusts are expected to reach as high as 45 mph.
• Primary Hazards: Heavy mixed precipitation and gusty winds that could bring down tree branches and impact the Monday morning and evening commutes.

Timeline

The Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 5:00 AM EDT Sunday, March 15, through 8:00 AM EDT Tuesday, March 17.