Lake-Effect Snow — Southern Berrien County, Michigan

2026-01-14 to 2026-01-15 · Southern Berrien County, Michigan

Event narrative

A single band of heavy lake effect developed behind an arctic front during the morning hours of January 14th, becoming nearly stationary and intensifying during the late afternoon through early morning hours of January 15th. Snowfall rates of more than 2 inches per hour were reported with near zero visibility. Snowfall totals across the country were generally greater than a foot, with a report of 16.4 inches in Niles. There were innumerous slide-offs and crashes across the region.

Wider weather episode

An intense lake effect snow band produced dangerous travel and near whiteout conditions. Snowfall totals exceeded a foot in portions of western Cass and Berrien counties.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1303014. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.