Lake-Effect Snow Intensifies Across Northern Michigan as Gaylord Braces for 1–3 Inches Through Saturday
GAYLORD, MICHIGAN — Gray skies and swirling flakes are sweeping across northern Michigan this morning as steady lake-effect snow grips the Gaylord region. Sharp winds are blowing sheets of snow across open roads, signaling the firm arrival of winter across the Upper Great Lakes.
1–3 Inches Expected by Friday Evening With Heavier Bands Possible
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, snow showers will continue through midday with fresh accumulation likely across Emmet, Otsego, and Alpena Counties. Most areas are on track to pick up 1–3 inches by Friday evening, though isolated heavier bands could rapidly coat roads along:
- I-75
- M-32
- Higher elevations near Gaylord
Wind chills dropping to –8°F will add to the winter sting, making early travel across exposed stretches difficult.
More Snow Into Saturday as Lake Michigan Moisture Fuels the System
Friday remains cold and breezy, with highs near 26°F and wind gusts around 30 mph. More snow showers are expected through Saturday, with another 1–2 inches possible late Saturday into Sunday as moisture feeds off Lake Michigan.
Drivers should anticipate:
- Slick stretches north of Grayling
- Reduced visibility during snow bursts
- Quick refreezing after sunset
- Blowing snow in open areas
Travelers moving through Gaylord’s higher hills will face the toughest conditions.
Stronger System Possible December 11–17 as Arctic Air Deepens
Long-range model guidance suggests a stronger system may impact northern Michigan between December 11–17, potentially bringing heavier lake-effect snow to the region’s snowbelt.
With holiday travel approaching, meteorologists are urging residents to stay prepared for rapidly changing conditions and additional Arctic surges.
Five-Day Outlook for Gaylord, Michigan
Thursday: Snow showers, high 16°F, low 11°F
Friday: Snow likely, high 26°F, low 21°F
Saturday: Snow continues, high 27°F, low 10°F
Sunday: Scattered snow, high 20°F, low 5°F
Monday: Cloudy, snow showers linger, high 28°F
Stay with ChicagoMusicGuide.com for more Upper Michigan weather alerts, lake-effect updates, and winter travel forecasts.