A powerful storm system is set to impact Michigan over the Thanksgiving holiday, with the timeline for heavy snow starting in one area by Tuesday.
Ahead of the storm, the first Winter Storm Watches have been issued for part of Michigan. While all of Michigan could see some snow with this incoming system, parts of Michigan are expected to get socked. This includes the Upper Peninsula.
The National Weather Services says 12 inches or more of heavy and blowing snow is possible between Tuesday night and Thursday morning. This area is now under a Winter Storm Watch. It includes the western U.P. counties of Keweenaw, Ontonagon, Houghton, Baraga and Gogebic. Winds gusting to 45 mph in this area are going to be the big issue when paired with the heavy snowfall.
“Travel could be very difficult to impossible,” the NWS said in the storm watch alert. “Widespread blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The hazardous conditions could impact the Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning commutes. Gusty winds could bring down tree branches. Snowfall may start accumulating as soon as early Tuesday afternoon.”
A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for several counties in the western Upper Peninsula.Graphic provided by the National Weather Service
“Over the past few days, its become more likely that a strengthening system will move through the Upper Great Lakes Wednesday,” NWS meteorologists in Marquette said in today’s forecast notes. “This storm is anticipated to impact Thanksgiving travel, especially west of Marquette into northern Wisconsin and the Arrowhead of Minnesota. Here is the general progression of anticipated conditions this week in Upper Michigan.
“The main window where heavy snow and strong winds could overlap is Wednesday across the west half of Upper Michigan. Moderate, potentially heavy, lake effect snow showers and strong winds on Thanksgiving should be expected in the traditional northwest wind snow belts. Those with travel plans should stay up to date on the latest forecasts and be prepared to adjust travel plans.”
Storm conditions will ramp up late Tuesday and continue into Thursday in the Upper Peninsula.Graphic provided by the National Weather Service
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