URGENT UPDATE: More than 25 counties in Michigan are now under a Winter Weather Advisory as a dangerously cold Arctic air mass sweeps through the state, creating hazardous travel conditions. The National Weather Service warns that these conditions will persist into Sunday, February 11, 2024, making travel treacherous across the region.
The advisory stretches along the Lower Peninsula, covering counties from the southern border to the Mackinac Bridge, while the Upper Peninsula sees advisories clustered on the west side, including the Keweenaw Peninsula. Notably, Chippewa County is under a Winter Storm Warning, expecting as much as 10 inches of snow accompanied by strong winds.
The forecast indicates that the bitterly cold air, combined with light snow and wind, will result in icy and hazardous road conditions. Temperatures are expected to drop to as low as 5°F tonight, complicating travel further as salt becomes ineffective in such extreme cold. The NWS emphasizes that these weather conditions—cold temperatures, wind chills, and light snow—create a glaze of ice on roadways, posing significant risks for drivers.
In the Lower Peninsula, only light snow accumulation is anticipated, with 1-3 inches expected near Lake Michigan and potentially higher amounts through Sunday morning. Meanwhile, Northern Michigan is likely to experience between 2 to 4 inches of snow, with certain areas like the stretch between Bellaire and Gaylord seeing up to 6-8 inches.
The National Weather Service is urging residents to prepare for challenging travel conditions starting this afternoon and lasting through Sunday morning. “People will need to slow down and allow extra travel time,” officials stated, as many may be unprepared for these extreme conditions.
As the situation develops, residents are encouraged to monitor local weather updates and take precautions while traveling. Stay safe and be aware of your surroundings—this weather system is not just about snow; the bitter cold poses real dangers on the road.
For up-to-the-minute updates, keep an eye on the National Weather Service announcements as this winter weather system unfolds.
