Michigan Blizzard Leaves Some UP Side Roads 'Completely Impassable'

Authorities advise residents to stay home as heavy snow and downed trees block roads across northern Michigan

Mar. 16, 2026 at 5:21pm

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A powerful winter storm has dumped between 20 and 30 inches of snow across parts of Michigan's northern Lower Peninsula and Upper Peninsula, leaving many side roads 'completely impassable' according to local sheriff's offices. Authorities are urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel as crews work to clear the roads.

Why it matters

The heavy snowfall and dangerous road conditions have led to power outages and stranded vehicles across the affected regions, raising concerns about public safety and the ability of emergency services to respond. The storm highlights the challenges northern Michigan communities face in dealing with severe winter weather.

The details

In Schoolcraft County in the Upper Peninsula, Deputy Jason Jackson reported that 'some sideroads are completely impassable' with 'multiple reports of cars stuck in the middle of the road.' The Roscommon County Sheriff's Office in the northern Lower Peninsula also warned residents not to travel due to fallen trees blocking roads. Meanwhile, the Alpena County Road Commission said the back-to-back storms made it harder to respond effectively.

  • As of Monday morning, Schoolcraft County had received 27.5 inches of snow.
  • Roscommon County saw around 4.5 inches of snow.
  • Alpena County experienced over 5 inches of snow and freezing rain.

The players

Jason Jackson

Deputy with the Schoolcraft County Sheriff's Office.

Ryan Brege

Managing Director of the Alpena County Road Commission.

Joe DeLizio

Meteorologist with the National Weather Service station in Gaylord.

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What they’re saying

“Some sideroads are completely impassable. We've had multiple reports of cars stuck in the middle of the road. ... I'd say unless people need to leave, they should stay home.”

— Jason Jackson, Deputy, Schoolcraft County Sheriff's Office

“These are very frustrating storms.”

— Ryan Brege, Managing Director, Alpena County Road Commission

What’s next

The National Weather Service expects the northern Lower Peninsula and Upper Peninsula to see continued isolated, blizzard-like conditions throughout the day, with more snow expected in the Upper Peninsula and a mix of snow, sleet, and ice in other areas.

The takeaway

The severe winter storm has created dangerous, impassable road conditions across northern Michigan, underscoring the challenges these communities face in dealing with major snowfall events. Authorities are urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel until the roads can be cleared, highlighting the importance of preparedness and resilience in the face of extreme weather.