Great Lakes Weather Alert: Early Snow Possible in Michigan and Wisconsin Before Thanksgiving
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN — Winter could make an early appearance across parts of the Great Lakes region, with forecasters watching signs of potential snow over Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and northern Wisconsin in the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving.
According to the NOAA Climate Prediction Center (CPC), new outlooks released on October 24, 2025, show that while much of the U.S. is expected to experience warmer-than-average temperatures through mid-November, the northern Great Lakes may buck that trend. Cooler Canadian air could begin dipping south around mid-month, bringing the first lake-effect snow events of the season.
Colder Air Could Arrive by Mid-November
Meteorologists say the 6–10 day outlook calls for mild conditions to start November, but a shift is likely around November 10–20, when cold, moisture-rich air from Canada could sweep across the region. The pattern could trigger measurable snowfall across Lakes Superior and Michigan, particularly in traditional snowbelt communities.
While southern cities such as Chicago, Fort Wayne, and Cleveland are expected to remain mostly rain-only, areas farther north may see the first snow-covered roads and reduced visibility of the season.
“This kind of pattern is typical during early El Niño winters,” a CPC meteorologist explained. “The Great Lakes often see quick bursts of lake-effect snow, even while most of the Midwest stays relatively warm.”
Travelers Urged to Stay Weather Aware
For most residents, the Thanksgiving travel window should remain smooth, with roads staying clear across the lower Midwest. However, those heading into Michigan’s Upper Peninsula or northern Wisconsin should prepare for rapidly changing conditions, as lake-effect systems can intensify within hours.
Forecasters recommend checking local forecasts regularly and carrying winter gear if traveling north of Green Bay or Marquette during the second half of November.
For continued Midwest weather updates and travel advisories, visit NapervilleLocal.com.
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.