Winter Storm Warning Issued for Mackinac and Southeast Chippewa Counties Through Friday Evening

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Gaylord, MI, has issued a Winter Storm Warning for portions of Upper Michigan. This alert is currently in effect and follows a period of heavy snow and blowing snow across the region. Additionally, a Winter Storm Watch has been issued for a subsequent weather system expected later this weekend.

Affected Areas

The warning and watch impact the following geographic regions:

• Southeast Chippewa County
• Western Mackinac County
• Eastern Mackinac County
• Mackinac Island and Bois Blanc Island

What You Should Do

Residents are advised to avoid travel if possible. If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. Monitor the latest forecasts for updates as conditions evolve. Hazardous conditions are expected to impact both the Friday morning and evening commutes.

Expected Conditions

For the current Winter Storm Warning:

• Snowfall: Accumulations between 6 and 10 inches.
• Wind: Gusts as high as 45 mph, causing blowing snow.
• Visibility: May drop below 1/4 mile at times.
• Impacts: Travel could be very difficult; gusty winds may bring down tree branches.

For the upcoming Winter Storm Watch:

• Precipitation: Heavy mixed precipitation possible.
• Snowfall: Potential accumulations between one and three feet.
• Ice: A light glaze of ice accumulation is possible.
• Wind: Gusts up to 45 mph.

Timeline

• Winter Storm Warning: Effective until 8:00 PM EDT Friday evening.
• Winter Storm Watch: Effective from late Saturday night through Tuesday morning.