Schools close, dismiss early ahead of winter storm

As a predicted winter storm moves closer to Upper Michigan, power utilities are reminding customers to prepare for more possible outages Thursday and Friday.

UPPCO says all power that was knocked out in Monday's ice storm has been restored, but crews stand ready to respond to any additional outages that heavy snow and gusty winds may cause.

UPPCO says tree trimming crews worked to remove ice-covered trees and tree branches that may affect the power lines.

Marquette County has four emergency shelter sites on standby: The Chocolay Township Fire Hall; NMU's Superior Dome; the Negaunee Township Fire Hall and the Ishpeming Township Hall.

a Winter Storm Warning for Thursday. It will be upgraded to a Blizzard Warning in the eastern U.P. Thursday night. Total snow accumulations of 10 to 14 inches are possible. Northwest winds gusting as high as 40 mph will lead to whiteout conditions at times, especially midday Thursday into Friday afternoon. Wind chills will be around 25 below zero Friday morning.

Some schools canceled classes Thursday in anticipation of the storm. Other districts dismissed early.

UPPCO is encouraging people to report all downed electric power lines or unsafe conditions that may have resulted from the ice storm that hit the area Monday.

People are reminded to turn off all appliances whenever an outage occurs and to confirm their service equipment is securely attached to their home, business or outbuilding. Electrical equipment that has become detached presents a safety or fire hazard to utility workers, emergency responders or the public.

Marquette County Emergency Management says people should take time to complete a home emergency kit and prepare to be without power for an extended period of time.

Stay with TV6, FOX UP and UpperMichigansSource.com for continuing coverage through the severe winter weather. Download the free TV6 Weather App for updates and alerts.