A significant winter storm is anticipated to impact the region starting Saturday night and lasting into Tuesday morning. The storm will unfold in three distinct phases, bringing severe weather conditions, including snow, ice, and potential blizzard conditions.
Winter Storm Warnings and Advisories
Winter Storm Warnings have been issued for the northern lower peninsula, while Blizzard Warnings cover much of the Upper Peninsula. Additionally, Winter Weather Advisories are in place for other northern areas.
Phase 1: Initial Snow Accumulation
- Snow will begin Saturday night, mainly post-midnight.
- Areas can expect 3-6 inches of snow, with localized amounts reaching up to 8 inches.
- Reduced visibility of 1-2 inches per hour is a possibility.
Phase 2: Blizzard Conditions and Ice
As the storm progresses, blizzard conditions are expected, especially in the U.P. and the northern lower peninsula. Visibility could drop to near zero in some areas, with snow accumulation rates climbing to 1-3 inches per hour.
- Freezing rain may mix with snow near Drummond Island, leading to significant ice accumulation.
- Icing amounts could range from 0.25 to 0.75 inches in certain areas Sunday afternoon and evening.
- Southern locations might see a transition to rain, with associated severe weather risks, including damaging winds and hail.
Phase 3: Colder Air and Heavy Snow Return
As colder air settles in late Sunday and into Monday, very heavy snow is anticipated once again. Traveling will become hazardous due to blizzard-like conditions.
- Expect an additional 1-2 feet of snow in the Upper Peninsula.
- Most northern lower regions could see 6-12 inches.
- Snowfall amounts will decrease as you move south and east.
Forecast Timeline
Saturday Night
- Snow will begin overnight, accumulating 1-2 inches by morning.
- Temperatures will range from 17 to 31°F, with southeast winds at 10-20 mph.
Sunday (March 15)
- Snow is expected to shift north early in the day.
- The northern lower peninsula may experience a break late morning, but freezing rain is possible in the afternoon.
- Highs will range from 25 to 54°F, with southeast to northeast winds gusting up to 50 mph.
Sunday Night
Heavy snow and freezing rain may lead to hazardous travel conditions, particularly in the northern lower peninsula.
- Temperatures will drop to between 18 and 30°F, with northeast winds gusting to 50 mph.
Monday (March 16)
Freezing rain will taper off by mid-morning as temperatures drop further. Heavy snowfall is expected, leading to near blizzard conditions.
- Highs will be between 25 and 32°F with strong northeast winds.
Tuesday (March 17)
Snow will continue, including lake-effect snow, though the intensity will decrease compared to the previous days.
- Highs will be chilly, from 14 to 25°F.
Projected Snow Totals
From Saturday night through Monday evening, snowfall estimates indicate the following:
- 20 inches or more from Traverse City to the Gaylord-Rogers City line, with localized totals of 30-38 inches in the Eastern U.P.
- Manistee-Alpena may see 3-10 inches of snow, depending on warmer conditions.
As forecasts evolve, residents are urged to stay updated on changing conditions and prepare for significant disruptions due to the severe winter storm predicted for Sunday and Monday.
