Blizzard warning issued across the U.P.

The National Weather service has issued a blizzard warning for following counties.

• Alger County- Effective until 5:00 p.m. Wednesday
• Keweenaw County- Effective until 1:00 a.m. Wednesday
• Northern Houghton County- Effective until 1:00 a.m. Wednesday

The following counties are under a winter storm warning.

• Baraga County- Effective until 12:00 a.m. Wednesday
• Chippewa County- Effective until 12:00 a.m. Wednesday
• Gogebic County- Effective until 12:00 a.m. CST Wednesday
• Southern Houghton County- Effective until 12:00 a.m. CST Wednesday
• Iron County- Effective until 12:00 a.m. CST Wednesday
• Luce County- Effective until 5:00 p.m. Wednesday
• Mackinac County- Effective until 12:00 a.m. Wednesday
• Marquette County- Effective until 12:00 a.m. Wednesday
• Ontonagon County- Effective until 12:00 a.m. CST Wednesday
• Schoolcraft County- Effective until 5:00 p.m. Wednesday

Hazardous weather, snow, heavy at times, will continue today. The steady snow will transition to lake effect snow showers tonight. Expect additional snow accumulation of 5 to 10 inches today through tonight.

In addition to the snow, northwest winds gusting over 40 mph at times will result in blizzard conditions through this evening due to extreme blowing and drifting snow. Impacts, most roads are drifted over and travel may become impossible in many areas. Expect whiteout conditions due to heavy snow and blowing snow.

Utility companies report severe weather today (high winds, freezing rain, blowing snow) is causing some power outages. Thus far, customers east of Rapid River to Nahma, including Ogontz and Ensign are without power. The Upper Peninsula Power Company says crews are working to restore power to these areas as quickly as possible. UPPCO Customers should call 1 800-562-7809 to report any power outages. Customers are also advised to stay away from all potentially unsafe situations involving power lines. UPPCO is expecting scattered power outages as long as the blustery conditions continue.

Below is a link to the UPPCO power outage page. It is updated every 15 minutes.

http://www.uppco.com/outagesummary/view/outagegrid.aspx

Precautionary/preparedness actions, a blizzard warning means severe winter weather conditions are expected or occurring. Falling and blowing snow with strong winds and poor visibilities are likely. Prepare, plan, and stay informed.