SAGINAW, Mich. – This morning’s commute proved slippery for many across the region, prompting numerous school closings and delays as winter weather impacted the start of the week. While conditions have calmed somewhat since then, lake-effect snow continues to affect areas, particularly in the Thumb region.
As we move into tonight, the possibility for lake-effect snow will persist, especially along the northeastern tip of the Thumb, where minor accumulations of a few inches could occur through the evening. Temperatures are expected to drop into the single digits and low teens, leading to a very chilly start to Tuesday, although light winds may help alleviate severe wind chill.
Looking ahead to Tuesday and early Wednesday, the day is expected to start relatively quiet for most areas, despite lingering snow on roads in portions of Huron County. Most residents should experience a smooth morning commute. The afternoon will also remain largely uneventful, with only scattered snow showers anticipated. However, beginning around 5 PM, attention should turn to a clipper system moving through Mid-Michigan, which could significantly affect road conditions.
Snowfall rates during this period are projected to reach between 0.5 inches to 1 inch per hour, particularly from 5 PM to 10 PM, accompanied by gusty winds of 25 to 30 miles per hour that could reduce visibility. By midnight, the wider snowfall is expected to taper off, but some scattered snow may linger into the overnight hours and into Wednesday morning.
The general forecast suggests a total accumulation of 1 to 4 inches, with most areas likely seeing 1 to 2 inches, while northern counties might approach the 3 to 4-inch range. The Thumb region has been extended into the 2-4 inch snowfall zone, although it’s expected that totals there will lean closer to 2 inches. The lightest snowfall is forecasted for the southwest near Gratiot County.
As temperatures drop into the teens and 20s Tuesday night, residents are urged to exercise caution as road conditions could become slippery by Wednesday morning, particularly in areas where snowplows may not have had the opportunity to clear roadways efficiently.
In a season marked by fluctuating weather patterns, this upcoming snow event serves as a reminder for residents to stay vigilant and prepared as the winter progresses.