Published: Feb. 14, 2024, 11:56 a.m. Updated: Feb. 14, 2024, 12:37 p.m.

A fast-moving storm system is set to blanket Lower Michigan with a solid layer of snow, with varying amounts depending on the location. The rain/snow line will stretch from Grand Rapids to Flint, indicating that areas south of this line may experience more rain than snow. However, the northern regions, including Saginaw and Big Rapids, can anticipate predominantly snowy conditions.

According to the radar forecast, the precipitation event is expected to last between six to nine hours on Thursday, February 15, 2024. At 8 a.m., the rain/snow line position can be observed, with areas north of Flint and Grand Rapids likely to receive mostly wet snow, whereas Muskegon may experience a mix due to the influence of warmer Lake Michigan water.

Central Lower Michigan, encompassing areas from Saginaw to Big Rapids, should brace for a several-hour burst of heavy snow, with the National Weather Service noting the possibility of "intense snow rates" reaching 1 to 2 inches per hour. The snowfall is expected to extend across the Mackinac Bridge to the eastern Upper Peninsula, where a combination of system snow and lake-effect snow will contribute to snow totals ranging between 3 to 5 inches.

By early afternoon, the snowfall is anticipated to taper off, with temperatures gradually rising to around 33 to 34 degrees Fahrenheit. This increase in temperature will aid in melting the snow on major highways, improving travel conditions for drivers after mid-afternoon. However, those who choose to venture out in the morning may face hazardous conditions, including limited visibility of up to one-quarter mile due to the "intense" snowfall characterized by large snowflakes.

For individuals planning to travel across southern Lower Michigan, the forecast indicates varying conditions, with some areas experiencing rain while others confront snowfall. It is advisable for motorists to join the Michigan Weather Insider text group to receive swift updates on winter storms and make informed decisions regarding their travel plans.

Overall, the snowfall forecast indicates a range of 2 to 5 inches for areas north of Grand Rapids and Flint, with the most common snowfall amount projected to be around 3 to 4 inches. Notable locations that can expect these snow totals include Saginaw, Bay City, Midland, Alma, Big Rapids, Muskegon, Mount Pleasant, Tawas, Clare, Cadillac, Frankfort, Houghton Lake, Traverse City, and Alpena. A strip extending from Cadillac to Alpena may receive up to 6 inches of snow.

Stay informed and exercise caution while navigating the roads in central and northern parts of Michigan, particularly during the morning hours, when the snowfall rates may be at their most intense.