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State police warn to drive carefully in snowstorms

HOUGHTON – As winter dishes out yet another snowstorm, the Michigan State Police are warning drivers to be careful.

Along with much of the country, the Upper Peninsula is in the middle of yet another snowstorm, this time making it into national weather stories. In addition, snowfall totals for December were higher than usual, at 74.5 inches, according to measurements taken at Michigan Tech’s Keweenaw Research Center.

The snowy conditions cause a lot of traffic accidents, most of which could be avoided if drivers are more cautious.

“Slow down, that’s the biggest thing,”said state police Sgt. James Revoyr, from the Calumet Post, advising drivers to make themselves more visible by turning on their headlights. “People drive too fast for conditions. Give yourself extra time.”

A lake effect snow advisory is in effect until 7 p.m. Saturday with temperatures around eight degrees, according to the National Weather Service.

Revoyr said the fresh snow blows around, causing white-out conditions for drivers.

“That makes it dangerous, too,” he said.

Thrillist ranked Michigan as the second U.S. state with the worst winters. Minnesota was first. The list was compiled considering weather patterns, average temperatures, and how effective and quickly each state’s department of transportation clears highways.

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