(2/23/2019) - A rare Blizzard Warning has been issued for the northern parts of Mid-Michigan for all day Sunday.
The National Weather System issued the warning for Clare, Ogemaw, Oscoda and Roscommon counties effect from 7 a.m. Sunday through 7 a.m. Monday.
During that time, heavy winds gusting more than 60 mph will blow around snowfall. About 4 to 8 inches of snow could fall in Clare County and about 2 to 4 inches is expected in the counties farther east.
The wind and snow will combine to create frequent whiteout conditions. The National Weather Service warns travel will be "extremely dangerous" and motorists should stay home during the storm.
Anyone who ventures out should carry a winter survival kit with them.
A High Wind Warning remains in effect all from Sunday morning through 4 a.m. Monday for the rest of Mid-Michigan. Sustained winds of 30 to 40 mph with gusts over 60 mph are expected across Lower Michigan.
Minor snow accumulations could fall, especially around the Tri-CIties and the Thumb, and create hazardous driving conditions.
A flash freeze is expected around midday Sunday as temperatures quickly fall from the 40s into the 20s. That means anything wet or slushy will become slippery and ice covered.
Tree and power line damage is likely from the winds. The Michigan State Police are warning residents to be prepared for widespread and long lasting power outages.
RELATED: Michigan State Police: Get ready for widespread, lengthy power outages
With winds coming out of the west, any high profile vehicles traveling north or south -- especially on I-75 and U.S. 23 -- could have trouble.
Consumers Energy is planning ahead for the prospect of widespread power outages caused by high winds this weekend.
DTE Energy said Friday it has more than 1,000 employees and contractors, including line workers and tree trim professionals, on standby for restoration and has requested help from an additional 300 out-of-state line workers, according to the Associated Press.
The system is known as a "bomb cyclone" caused by a rapidly deepening low pressure system dropping more than 24 millibars in 24 hours.
RELATED: 'Bomb cyclone' could bring 60 mph wind gusts to Mid-Michigan this weekend
An area of low pressure will move from the Plains over Michigan late Saturday and Sunday. As it moves toward Mid-Michigan, the system will strengthen rapidly and kick up high winds.
Winds will begin to ease Sunday evening and the system will move east by Monday morning.
Stay tuned to the ABC 12 First Alert Weather Team on air, online and on Facebook for the latest updates. You can also get instant updates from the ABC12 Weather app in the Apple and Android stores.