All articles tagged with #northern michigan
Northern Michigan is experiencing an increase in tick cases due to a mild winter, which has led to an early and potentially more severe tick season. Dr. Jon Alterie and entomologist Nathaniel Walton emphasize the importance of thorough tick checks and prompt medical attention if a tick is found embedded in the skin, as ticks can transmit various diseases, including Lyme disease.
A blizzard warning has been issued for parts of the Upper Peninsula in northern Michigan, with heavy snowfall of up to 2 feet and strong winds expected through Thursday. Widespread snow accumulations of 8-12 inches are forecast, with higher amounts in Marquette, Baraga, and western Alger counties. Wind gusts of up to 55 mph may cause reduced visibility, downed trees, and power outages, prompting the National Weather Service to advise restricting travel to emergencies and to be prepared with emergency supplies if travel is necessary.
The Stites Natural Area in Suttons Bay, Northern Michigan, has expanded by 20 acres, bringing its total size to 70 acres. Managed by the Leelanau Conservancy, this natural area is known for its glacial-carved ridges, diverse woodlands, and proximity to downtown Suttons Bay. Visitors can enjoy a 1.6-mile trail for activities such as hiking, snowshoeing, and birdwatching, while experiencing the beauty of wildflowers and century-old tree species.
A lucky lottery player in Northern Michigan won the Lotto 47 jackpot worth $4.37 million with a ticket sold at the Amvets Post 110 in Cadillac. The winning ticket matched all six numbers drawn, marking the first jackpot win of the year. The winner is urged to contact the Michigan Lottery to claim their prize within one year. This win follows the Wolverine FLL lottery club's $1.05 billion jackpot claim in March 2021, and serves as a reminder for players to check their tickets promptly to avoid missing out on winnings.
Northern Michigan has seen a significant increase in HIV diagnoses, with new cases more than tripling in the last four years compared to the previous four years. The region reported 44 cases from 2019 through 2023, compared to 14 cases from 2014 through 2018. This rise in HIV cases has prompted a recommendation for increased testing in the area.
A surge in respiratory illnesses, including Influenza A, RSV, and COVID-19, is being observed in northern Michigan, according to Dr. Jonathan Alterie, an emergency room physician. Symptoms range from upper respiratory congestion to shortness of breath, making it difficult to differentiate between the illnesses. While COVID-19 can be tested at home, there is no such accessibility for influenza or RSV. Dr. Alterie advises individuals with mild symptoms to stay home and monitor their condition, but those experiencing severe symptoms should contact their doctor. He also emphasizes the importance of getting a flu shot and practicing preventive measures such as handwashing and wearing masks.
A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for parts of Northern Michigan, with the potential for heavy lake-effect snow bands. The Sault Ste. Marie area could see up to 6 inches of snow, while areas including Traverse City, Grayling, and the Mackinac Bridge may see an inch or two. Slippery roads are expected, making the Friday morning commute slow in the affected area.
An outbreak of whooping cough, or pertussis, has been reported in Northern Michigan, with six cases identified in children under the age of 4 in Presque Isle County. Health officials are urging parents to ensure their children are vaccinated, as whooping cough can lead to severe illness, especially in young children. The bacterial infection is highly contagious and can cause coughing fits, difficulty breathing, and pneumonia. Vaccination is the best way to protect infants, and pregnant women are also recommended to receive the immunization. Michigan has experienced cycles of higher pertussis activity every few years, and health officials advise taking precautions to limit the spread of the disease.
Two people were killed in a house explosion in Lovells Township, Northern Michigan, believed to be caused by a gas leak. The victims, a 71-year-old man and a 72-year-old woman, were found deceased inside the house. The incident is under investigation.
Northern Michigan is experiencing a hay shortage due to a combination of drought and high fertilizer prices. The Federal Agricultural Statistics Agency reports that hay is at a 50-year low. Meadow Creek Ranch, a farm in Reed City, has only received 25% of their usual hay yield this summer. The drought has also affected grass growth, forcing them to rely on hay earlier than usual. To address the issue, they plan to change their fertilizer application and increase Sudex cultivation. Additionally, hay prices have risen by an average of $10 per bale, reaching around $85.
Karen Jean Adams, a 77-year-old woman suffering from dementia, was reported missing from Montmorency County and was found dead four days later in a remote area of Northern Michigan. She was last seen leaving a family member's house and was found less than a mile from her car, which had become stuck. Search and rescue teams, including a Michigan State Police helicopter and K-9 teams, were called in to search for her. Investigators believe she died of exposure to the elements.
A late March winter storm is expected to bring 6-10 inches of snow and wind gusts in the 40-50 mph range to Northern Michigan, causing dangerous travel conditions. The snow is forecasted to gradually wind down later in the evening into the overnight hours. Metro Detroit is under a wind advisory with rain in the forecast, but no snow accumulation is expected in Lower Michigan this weekend.
A winter storm warning has been issued for 22 counties in Michigan, with at least six inches of snow expected in the northern third of Lower Michigan. The snowfall will taper off rapidly as you move south, with Grand Rapids and the Saginaw/Bay City/Midland areas only expected to have an inch or two of snow. Temperatures around 33 degrees may help the roads, but dangerous driving conditions are expected from 11:00 a.m. to around 4:00 p.m. in Traverse City and until at least 7:00 p.m. for areas around Gaylord to Alpena.
A winter storm watch has been issued for the northern third of Lower Michigan, including Traverse City, Cadillac, Grayling, Gaylord, Charlevoix, Petoskey, and Alpena. Heavy, wet snow is expected on Saturday and Saturday evening, with the potential for freezing rain in some areas. The dangerous driving period is from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday, and the most treacherous time to drive will be Saturday afternoon and evening. It is advised to wait until Sunday to travel, as temperatures should warm up and any snow on roads will melt.
Several counties in Northern Michigan are under a winter weather advisory due to expected snow and cold temperatures. Residents are advised to take precautions while traveling and to stay warm indoors.