Winter Storm — Ontonagon, Michigan

2026-01-18 to 2026-01-19 · Ontonagon, Michigan

Event narrative

Heavy lake effect snow brought periods of visibility as low as 1/4 mile to the Ironwood Airport (IWD, nearest ASOS). Reported snow accumulations were sparse and below traditional criteria but heavy snow and blowing snow were impactful. 12.3 of snowfall in 24 hours was reported 3.5 miles east of Ontonagon County in Houghton County (3-14-2026 0600 EST). Key Impacts: Transportation delays.

Wider weather episode

A clipper low moved through the region bringing widespread light snow to the U.P. Moderate to heavy lake effect snow developed over the northern and western U.P. as an arctic air mass moved into the Great Lakes, disrupting travel and resulting in school closures. In addition to snowfall, winds and arctic air brought very cold windchills in the -20s across the U.P.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1312136. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.