MICHIGAN — Multiple school districts across Northern Lower Michigan and the Upper Peninsula could cancel classes Tuesday and Wednesday as a winter storm system moves into the region.
The National Weather Service has issued winter storm watches beginning Tuesday evening for much of northern Michigan, with the most widespread impacts expected overnight Tuesday into Wednesday. Hazardous travel conditions during both the Wednesday morning and evening commutes could prompt administrators to consider closures or delays.
Northern Lower Michigan
In Alpena, Cheboygan, Emmet, Montmorency and Presque Isle counties, forecasters say 2 to 5 inches of snow and sleet are possible, along with up to one-tenth of an inch of ice. Wind gusts could reach 35 mph.
Other Northern Lower Michigan counties — including Antrim, Otsego, Kalkaska, Crawford, Oscoda, Alcona, Roscommon, Ogemaw, Iosco and Charlevoix — could see up to 2 inches of snow and sleet but heavier icing, with around one-quarter inch possible. That level of ice accumulation raises the risk of tree damage and scattered power outages, both of which often factor into school closure decisions.
If ice accumulates overnight, rural and secondary roads may remain slick into Wednesday morning, increasing the likelihood of delays or cancellations.
Eastern Upper Michigan
In Chippewa and Mackinac counties, including Mackinac Island, heavy snow is possible late Tuesday night through Wednesday evening. Totals of 4 to 8 inches are forecast, with some freezing rain mixing in. Winds could gust up to 35 mph, reducing visibility at times.
Snow-covered roads and blowing snow could make bus travel difficult, especially in exposed areas.
Central and Western Upper Peninsula
Alger, Delta, Luce and Schoolcraft counties could receive 4 to 8 inches of snow along with up to one-quarter inch of ice. Winds may gust up to 40 mph.
In Keweenaw, Northern Houghton, Baraga and Marquette counties, snow totals could reach 5 to 12 inches, with gusts as high as 50 mph over the Keweenaw Peninsula. Blowing snow and near-whiteout conditions are possible in open areas.
School officials across these counties will likely monitor overnight snowfall rates, ice buildup and wind conditions before making decisions. Families are encouraged to watch for district notifications Tuesday night and early Wednesday morning as conditions evolve.
