Dusting of Snow for parts of Upper Michigan

Less than a quarter inch of snow covered parts of Upper Michigan this morning. The slight precipitation is much-needed as the region is in the midst of a near-drought.

The National Weather Service and Michigan Department of Natural Resources have issued “red flag” and “very high fire danger” warnings.

A burn-ban is in force, and the DNR will not issue burn permits until conditions have improved. DNR officials say residents who normally burn spring brush should look for alternative methods of disposal, including local municipal compost or brush dump sites.

The system that brought overnight rains and the morning snowfall is expected to move out of Upper Michigan this afternoon. Clear, dry and windy weather is in the forecast for the next several days. Winds from the north are expected at more than 20mph, gusting to 31mph.