Historic Blizzard Buries Upper Peninsula As Milan Native Helps Lead Marquette

A powerful winter storm is burying parts of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula under feet of snow, creating dangerous travel conditions and forcing widespread closures across the region.

In the city of Marquette, Milan native and City Manager Karen Kovacs said crews are working to keep essential routes open as the blizzard continues.

Marquette is experiencing its third blizzard of the season, with severe winter weather expected to continue through the evening. Current estimates suggest the storm could bring more than three feet of snow before it ends, though strong winds are making it difficult to measure precise snowfall totals.

Lake effect snow combined with high winds has created drifts exceeding six feet in open areas and along roadways, Kovacs reported.

“City crews are actively responding as weather conditions allow, prioritizing safety and access for emergency services,” Kovacs explained.

The storm has forced widespread closures across the community. Kovacs said most businesses and operations are shut down unless they support emergency services or sell essential winter equipment such as snow shovels or snow blowers.

Blizzard conditions are making travel and snow removal especially difficult. Officials are urging residents to stay off the roads unless they are essential workers.

“Crews are responding as conditions allow, and we appreciate everyone doing their part in staying off the roads,” Kovacs said.

While heavy snow is common in the Upper Peninsula, Kovacs noted that this winter has already brought multiple severe storms.

In her role overseeing city operations, she said the biggest concerns during events like this include the status of snow removal equipment, power outages, fuel supplies and keeping emergency routes open for first responders.

“I’ve honestly lost count on the number of blizzards I’ve been through in the last five years,” Kovacs said. “It’s probably five or six now.”

Despite the difficult conditions, city crews continue working to maintain access for emergency vehicles and critical services until the storm passes.

Featured photo: Blowing snow and near whiteout conditions cover a street in Marquette during a powerful Upper Peninsula blizzard expected to bring more than three feet of snow. Photo courtesy of Karen Kovacs.