The Michigan State Police is encouraging residents and visitors to prepare for winter weather expected to affect the southern Lower Peninsula Wednesday and Thursday.
The National Weather Service is forecasting snow to begin early Wednesday morning and last through Thursday night. Snow totals are expected up to 16 inches in many of the impacted areas, with localized amounts of up to 20 inches possible in southwest Michigan. The snow, combined with gusting winds, is expected to cause low visibility and hazardous driving conditions.
“Michiganders should prepare for difficult and potentially dangerous conditions on both Wednesday and Thursday because of the incoming storm,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “Staying home will keep you safe and will help emergency crews focus on improving road conditions and assisting those who need it. Michiganders are no stranger to big storms, and I know we can get through the next few days together.”
“Travel may be extremely dangerous over the next few days, so we are asking people to stay home, if possible,” said Col. Joe Gasper, state director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security and director of the Michigan State Police. “Winter weather is not unexpected in Michigan but preparing beforehand is the best way to keep you and your family safe.”
To stay safe during a winter storm:
- Stay indoors if possible. If you must go outside, wear protective gear, such as a hat, mittens, gloves, scarf and a warm coat.
- Avoid overexertion when shoveling heavy snow, pushing a car, or walking in deep snow. Take breaks frequently.
- Watch for signs of frostbite, which include loss of feeling or pale appearance of fingers, toes or face.
- Watch for signs of hypothermia, which include uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, drowsiness and exhaustion.
- Remove clothing if it gets damp or wet. Wet clothing can make you more prone to hypothermia.
- Weatherproof doors and windows to trap heat inside your home.
- Check heating units. Poorly operating or damaged heating units can release carbon monoxide gas. Test carbon monoxide detectors for proper operation and battery life.
- Check on family, friends and neighbors who are at risk and may need additional assistance.
If you must drive, you are encouraged to check travel conditions and weather reports before driving at www.michigan.gov/roadconditions. The MSP/EMHSD asks that you tune into local news or view this website rather than calling your local MSP post or 911 for travel conditions.
For more information about how to stay safe during winter weather, take a look at the MDHHS Cold Health and Safety Fact Sheet. For more information on how to prepare before, during and after an emergency or disaster, visit www.michigan.gov/miready or follow MSP/EMHSD on Twitter at @MichEMHS.