Major Winter Storm Forecast to Dump 3 Feet of Snow in Michigan

National Weather Service warns of record-breaking snowfall, ice, and high winds across the state this weekend.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 3:18pm

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The National Weather Service is forecasting a potentially historic winter storm to impact northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula this weekend, with the potential for over 3 feet of snow in some areas, as well as significant icing and high winds. A winter storm watch has been issued, and the weather service says confidence is growing that the storm could bring record-breaking snowfall amounts.

Why it matters

This major winter storm has the potential to cause widespread power outages, transportation disruptions, and other significant impacts across a large swath of Michigan. The heavy snow and ice could down trees and power lines, while the high winds could create blizzard conditions, making travel extremely dangerous. Residents in the affected areas will need to prepare for the possibility of being snowed in for an extended period.

The details

According to the National Weather Service, the storm is expected to bring intense snowfall, with accumulations of up to 38 inches possible in Michigan's snowbelt region. The eastern Upper Peninsula and northern Lower Peninsula are forecast to see the heaviest snow. In addition, the southern Lower Peninsula may see a mix of rain, freezing rain, and snow, with ice accumulations of up to 0.4 inches. High winds of up to 45 mph are also expected, which could lead to blizzard conditions.

  • The winter storm is forecast to impact the region from Saturday night, March 14, through Monday morning, March 16.
  • A winter storm watch has been issued for the northern Lower Peninsula and Upper Peninsula through Tuesday morning, March 17.

The players

National Weather Service

The National Weather Service is the primary source of weather data, forecasts, and warnings for the United States.

Marquette National Weather Service

The regional office of the National Weather Service located in Marquette, Michigan, which serves the Upper Peninsula.

Gaylord National Weather Service

The regional office of the National Weather Service located in Gaylord, Michigan, which serves the northern Lower Peninsula.

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What they’re saying

“Confidence continues to grow regarding a major winter storm for the Upper Great Lakes region Saturday night (March 14) through Monday (March 16). Potentially record snowfall amounts possible, especially across the east and south-central U.P.”

— Marquette National Weather Service

“A major winter storm will likely impact the state Sunday into Monday, including the potential for 12"+ snow and significant icing.”

— Gaylord NWS office

“Our attention then turns to a major winter storm set to impact the region this weekend into early next week. Confidence is continuing to grow regarding significant snowfall accumulations (potentially record breaking) and blizzard conditions that may result in widespread impacts.”

— Marquette NWS office

What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the storm and issue updates on the potential impacts and timing as the system approaches Michigan.

The takeaway

This major winter storm has the potential to be historic, with the possibility of record-breaking snowfall and dangerous conditions across a large portion of Michigan. Residents in the affected areas should closely monitor the forecasts and be prepared to shelter in place for an extended period if necessary.