update: Blizzard’s Thursday Afternoon Update: Snow Timeline, Latest Cumulative Update
The countdown to this week’s major storm is approaching. Michigan-wide blizzard warnings have been expanded, with officials and National Weather Service officials stepping up efforts to warn motorists to stay off the road during the dangerous travel portion of this storm, which begins later today.
Related: The Pre-Christmas Blizzard: What Changed Overnight
“Snow will develop Thursday afternoon and become heavy Thursday night. Lake-effect snow will begin to fall by Friday morning. Blizzard conditions will develop late Thursday night and worsen Friday.” said a meteorologist with the National Weather Service at the Grand Rapids office in a recent forecast.
“Extensive blizzards and snow drifts are expected in the worst conditions near and west of U.S. 131. Total snowfall from Saturday night, when the event ends, through Sunday morning will drop to 1 in many areas of western Michigan. ft. 0.5 in the middle section of the state near US 127. Travel deteriorates rapidly Thursday night and quickly becomes dangerous.The worst conditions are expected on Friday. Not recommended.”
Related: Is your winter emergency kit ready? 15 things you should always have in your car
The National Weather Service has issued this blizzard warning forecast for Lower, Michigan.
Related: Storm Force Winds Sweep Great Lakes During Blizzard, Waves Could Exceed 25 Feet
According to NWS, Storm Highlights:
- Between 2pm and 5pm on Thursday, outside and road conditions will begin to go downhill.
- Heavy snow on Thursday night
- the wind starts to pick up
- Strong winds Friday through Saturday with gusts up to 50 mph
- Temperatures drop into single digits
- Wind chill drops to -10
- A blizzard or drifting snow on the roadway with very limited visibility for the driver
“The bottom line is that if you can stay home from Thursday afternoon through Saturday evening, you will be safer. said the staff.
Related: Daily Storm Guide: Possible Blizzards, 50 mph Gusts, Subzero Chills