Lake Effect Snow Piles Up in Great Lakes Region, Impacting Thanksgiving Travel

A major lake effect snow event is disrupting Thanksgiving plans across the Great Lakes. Heavy snowfall and high winds are creating dangerous travel conditions, particularly in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The National Weather Service has issued blizzard warnings for some areas.

The storm system arrived on Wednesday and continued through Thanksgiving Day. It poses a significant threat to holiday travelers and has already caused widespread power outages.

Record Snowfall and Widespread Power Outages Reported

Snowfall totals have been staggering in some locations. According to the National Weather Service in Marquette, 15 inches of snow was measured at their office by Thursday morning. Reports from near Bessemer, Michigan, indicated accumulations of 18 to 28 inches.

One location near Montreal, Wisconsin, recorded an incredible 33 inches of snow. Meteorologists noted that elevation combined with lake effect created these extreme conditions.

The heavy snow and strong winds, with gusts up to 45 mph, have led to significant power disruptions. Over 1,000 customers lost power near Houghton, Michigan. Similar outages were reported along the Lake Michigan coastline near Holland.

The Science Behind the Hazardous Lake Effect Phenomenon

Lake effect snow forms when cold air moves over the relatively warmer waters of the Great Lakes. This interaction pulls moisture into the atmosphere, forming narrow, intense bands of clouds. These bands can produce snowfall rates of 2 to 3 inches per hour.

The resulting snow squalls cause sudden whiteout conditions. This makes driving extremely hazardous. Travel was reported as difficult across the Upper Peninsula with very low visibility.

The weather is expected to ease from west to east as Friday approaches. Another, less intense system may bring a few more inches of snow over the weekend.

The significant lake effect snow event serves as a stark reminder of nature’s power during the holiday season. Travelers are urged to stay informed on the latest forecasts and road conditions.

Thought you’d like to know

What is lake effect snow?

Lake effect snow occurs when cold air passes over the warmer water of a large lake. The air picks up moisture and heat, forming clouds that can produce intense, localized snowbands. This phenomenon is common downwind of the Great Lakes.

Which areas are most affected by this storm?

The heaviest impacts are in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and parts of northern Wisconsin. Alger County in Michigan was under a blizzard warning. Areas near Buffalo, New York, were also under a lake effect snow warning.

How much snow has fallen so far?

Reports indicate a wide range of snowfall due to the nature of the bands. Some areas saw over 30 inches, like near Montreal, Wisconsin. Other locations received significantly less, highlighting the localized nature of the event.

What are the main travel hazards?

The primary dangers are sudden whiteout conditions and slick roads from heavy snowfall. Strong winds are also creating large snow drifts that can block roads. Low visibility is a major concern for drivers.

When is the snow expected to end?

The lake effect snow is forecast to taper off from west to east as Friday approaches. A separate, less severe weather system may bring additional light snow to the region over the upcoming weekend.