US: Adverse winter weather forecast across the Great Lakes region through at least Dec. 12

Adverse winter weather is forecast across parts of the Great Lakes region through at least Dec. 12. Intense bands of lake effect snow, initially downwind of Lakes Superior and Michigan Dec. 12 and then downwind of Lakes Erie and Ontario are expected late Dec. 11-early Dec. 12. The snow will start to taper off Dec. 13. Snowfall totals of 0.3-0.6 meters (1-2 feet) are likely in the favored Snow Belt across portions of northwest and western New York, far northwest Pennsylvania, far northeastern Ohio, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, and the western portions of the Lower Peninsula of Michigan. Hazardous travel conditions are likely due to reduced visibility caused by blowing snow.

As of late Dec. 10, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued winter storm warnings across northern and western Michigan and far northwestern Wisconsin. Lake effect snow warnings, winter storm watches, and winter weather advisories are in place across much of the rest of the affected area. Officials could update and extend the coverage of the weather alerts over the coming days.

Snow accumulations are likely across the affected region, especially at higher elevations. Lesser accumulations are possible where sleet and freezing rain mix with the snow, and precipitation is less intense. In addition to the heavy snow, strong wind gusts will likely lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow in some areas. Sporadic power outages could occur throughout the affected region.

The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions across the region. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are probable along regional highways. Dangerous and challenging driving conditions are likely on secondary and rural roads in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities will probably close stretches of highways if driving conditions become too hazardous. Flight delays and cancellations are probable due to ground stops and deicing operations at regional airports.