MARQUETTE COUNTY -- Wintry conditions have hit the U.P in full force this week.

There's been plenty of snow falling in some areas, but the big story is the arctic blast that has taken over.  For the past three days, temperatures have dropped well below the long-term average. Temperatures across the U.P., for the most part, have been in the single digits, but when you factor in the wind chill, it feels much colder.  In many areas, well below zero.

But not everyone seems to mind the cold.

"Not at all.  Makes the driving more interesting, and it definitely gives you something to look forward to," says NMU student Phillip Nichols.

Luckily, those who do venture outside make sure they're ready.

"I walk from my apartment a lot of the times, so a lot of the cold affects me, but it's not anything too bad as long as you bundle up," explains Marquette resident Patrick Stuart.

The cold has also caused problems for drivers.  Icy conditions apparently were a factor in this accident on M-553 outside Marquette earlier today.  Now some residents are waiting for the ice and snow to melt and the temperatures to climb again.

"I'm hoping the summer comes quick, 'cause although I don't mind the cold too much, I actually think I prefer having sunshine...get some vitamin D," Nichols says.

It looks as though he may get his wish.  We should see some signs of a warm-up as we start the next week.