The National Weather Service (NWS) office in Gaylord, Michigan, plays a crucial role in providing accurate and timely weather information for northern Lower Michigan. This includes critical data on snowfall, snow depth, and winter weather forecasts. This information is essential for residents, businesses, and travelers in the region to make informed decisions during the winter months. This article will delve into the data and resources provided by NWS Gaylord, focusing on snowfall information and its importance to the community.
Snowfall Data and Resources from NWS Gaylord
NWS Gaylord collects and disseminates a variety of snowfall data, including:
Daily and Seasonal Snowfall Reports
These reports provide up-to-date information on daily snowfall accumulations and season-to-date totals for various locations across northern Lower Michigan. The data is compared to historical normals, allowing users to understand how current snowfall compares to average conditions. NWS Gaylord also tracks record snowfall amounts for each location.
| Site | Record Snowfall (Inches) | Winter Season |
|---|---|---|
| Alpena | 166.3 | 1970-71 |
| Houghton Lake | 124.1 | 1970-71 |
| Sault Ste. Marie | 222.0 | 1995-96 |
| NWS Gaylord | 185.6 | 2006-07 |
| Traverse City | 191.2 | 1995-96 |
| West Branch | 95.0 | 1951-52 |
| Petoskey | 184.8 | 2013-14 |
24-hour snowfall map from NWS Gaylord. This map is an interpolation of actual reports and should be considered an estimation only. Values are generally 24-hour reports ending around 7 am EST.
Snow Depth Measurements
NWS Gaylord monitors snow depth, providing crucial information for transportation and recreation. This data includes current snow depths and the number of days with significant snow accumulation (6 inches or more).
Satellite estimate of snow depth from NWS Gaylord. It may not reflect current actual conditions until skies are clear enough for a good satellite image.
Webcam Imagery
NWS Gaylord operates webcams, providing visual confirmation of current conditions. One webcam features the 45th Parallel Snow Stake, offering a visual representation of snow depth, while another showcases a view from the NWS Gaylord office.
NWS Gaylord’s 45th Parallel Snow Stake. This snow stake may not necessarily reflect the official daily snow depth measurement for the NWS office in Gaylord.
Snowfall and Ice Forecasts
Short-term and long-term forecasts for snowfall and ice accumulation are essential products of NWS Gaylord. These forecasts utilize various meteorological models and data sources to predict future winter weather events. Probabilistic forecasts are also available, providing the likelihood of exceeding certain snowfall thresholds.
Snowfall forecast map from NWS Gaylord.
Specialized Winter Weather Products
NWS Gaylord provides specialized products like snow ratio maps, indicating the water content of the snowpack. This information is valuable for understanding potential flooding during snowmelt. Links to probabilistic snowfall information and winter weather safety resources are also readily accessible.
Snow ratio map from NWS Gaylord. Red Shading (Wet Snow): Ratio of 1-11″ of Snow to 1″ Liquid. Green Shading (Normal Snow): Ratio of 11-20″ of Snow to 1″ Liquid. Blue Shading (Dry Snow): Ratio of 20+” of Snow to 1″ Liquid.
Importance of NWS Gaylord for the Community
NWS Gaylord’s comprehensive winter weather information is critical for:
- Public Safety: Accurate forecasts and warnings enable residents to prepare for winter storms and hazardous travel conditions.
- Transportation: Snowfall and ice data are crucial for road maintenance crews and transportation agencies to ensure safe and efficient travel.
- Economic Activities: Businesses reliant on winter tourism, such as ski resorts and snowmobile rental companies, depend on accurate snowfall information for operational planning.
- Recreation: Winter recreation enthusiasts rely on NWS Gaylord data for planning activities like skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.
Conclusion
The National Weather Service Gaylord office provides vital snowfall information and winter weather resources for northern Lower Michigan. By offering accurate data, forecasts, and specialized products, NWS Gaylord empowers individuals and organizations to make informed decisions, ensuring safety and facilitating various activities throughout the winter season. For the most up-to-date information, consult the official NWS Gaylord website.
