Blizzard in Ontonagon, Michigan

Several hours of blizzard conditions were reported during the afternoon and evening of the 6th. Multiple schools in the impacted areas were released early on the 6th and delayed their start on the morning of the 7th. Ontonagon Lakeshore and Silver City MDOT mesonet sites reported frequent gusts above 35 mph from 2 PM to 10 PM. Trout Creek MDOT mesonet site reported frequent wind gusts above 35 mph from 11 AM to 7 PM. Key impacts: transportation delays, traffic accidents, school closures.

The combination of lake effect snow showers and very strong winds created blizzard conditions in Upper Michigan's Copper Country Thursday afternoon and evening. Areas of blowing and drifting snow were also noted in central and eastern Upper Michigan. The Houghton County Airport reported 7.5 consecutive hours of blizzard conditions and white out conditions were reported on many roadways. Michigan State Police reported that several cars were reported to be in ditches and advised against travel on US-41. Multiple schools in the impacted areas were released early Thursday and delayed their start Friday morning. Peak wind observed at Houghton County Airport was 61 mph while widespread 40-55 mph winds were reported across the forecast area. Snowfall reports ranged from 2 to 6 inches.