Blizzard warning issued for northern Michigan; 2 feet or more forecast in parts

A blizzard warning was issued Tuesday night for parts of the Upper Peninsula as heavy snow up to 2 feet and more, and strong winds were expected through Thursday, the National Weather Service said.

Update:Blizzard warning downgraded, but up to 9 more inches of snow expected in UP

The blizzard warning was in effect from 8 p.m. Tuesday to early Thursday for parts of the Upper Peninsula, the weather service said. Widespread snow accumulations of 8-12 inches were forecast and in excess of 2 feet across higher elevations in Marquette, Baraga and western Alger counties.

Wind gusts to 55 mph in some areas were expected.

Blowing snow was expected to reduce visibility, down trees and produce power outages, the weather service said.

"Travel should be restricted to emergencies in Baraga and Marquette counties," said the weather service said on X on Tuesday evening. "If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency."

Temperatures were expected to dip to 28 Tuesday night. Heavy and blowing snow mixed with rain was forecast Wednesday, with temperatures reaching 32 and lows of 28 overnight.