As winter weather intensifies, Michigan is preparing for a new wave of heavy snow. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), various parts of the state can expect significant snowfall from late Saturday into Sunday. Winter Weather Advisories are already in effect for many regions.
Forecast Timeline for Michigan’s Heavy Snow
- West Michigan: Snow is anticipated to redevelop around midnight, lasting into Sunday. Accumulations of up to 5 inches are expected, especially northwest of the Muskegon to Clare line.
- Detroit Area: Southeast Michigan will see lighter snowfall, with areas like Irish Hills and Saginaw receiving an inch or more, while other locations may only experience a light dusting.
- Northern Michigan: The heaviest snowfall is forecasted from 7 p.m. Saturday to 1 a.m. Sunday. Total snow accumulation is predicted to be between 3 to 6 inches, with localized amounts exceeding 7 inches.
- Upper Peninsula: Central U.P. counties may receive up to 11 inches of snow, with snowfall rates reaching an inch per hour during peak times.
Regional Impacts and Travel Advisories
Widespread snow is projected to continue across Michigan through Sunday morning, particularly affecting Marquette and Baraga counties, which are under Winter Storm Warnings. These areas may accumulate between 7 to 11 inches of snow.
In Northern Lower Michigan, consistent snowfall totals will hover around three to six inches, with higher amounts possible near the M-32 corridor. Strong northerly winds are expected, leading to travel hazards due to reduced visibility and blowing snow.
Weather Conditions Ahead
The southern regions of Lower Michigan are experiencing lighter accumulations, with forecasts indicating one to two inches in the Saginaw Valley and Thumb areas. Near the Ohio border, snowfall will likely be minimal.
As colder air moves in, current precipitation types will fully transition to snow. Winds gusting up to 35 mph may create wind chill values near the single digits, while temperatures will remain in the 20s to low 30s.
Looking Ahead
On Sunday, the widespread snowfall is expected to taper off, although residual lake effect snow showers could persist near Lake Michigan. The weather pattern is set to remain active, with another light snow event expected Sunday night into Monday.
As the week progresses, temperatures may rise slightly, with highs climbing into the 30s by Monday and Tuesday. However, a more substantial weather system is projected to arrive Tuesday into Wednesday, potentially bringing rain transitioning to snow as temperatures drop again.
