The National Weather Service has issued a severe winter storm warning for the northern Lower Peninsula and the entire Upper Peninsula of Michigan, effective from Thursday evening through Saturday morning. Forecasters are predicting 14-22 inches of snow with wind gusts reaching 50 mph.

Traverse City, Petoskey, and Marquette are expected to bear the brunt of the storm, with near-blizzard conditions anticipated Friday afternoon. MDOT crews have been mobilized statewide and have begun pre-treating major highways with brine solution.

Governor Whitmer has declared a state of emergency for 12 northern counties, activating the Michigan National Guard for potential rescue operations. Residents are urged to stock emergency supplies and avoid non-essential travel during the storm period.