Larry Somero, left, and Jason Larson, both of whom work for the Marquette Downtown Development Authority, clear snow at a parking lot near the intersection of Third and Washington streets in Marquette on Wednesday. DDA maintenance staff particularly is needed to clear spots, such as steps, that plows can’t reach. (Journal photo by Christie Mastric)

MARQUETTE — Rain, sleet and snow made for a messy day throughout the region as a winter storm hit the Upper Peninsula on Wednesday.

Power outages and school closures were reported throughout the U.P., as roads were slick and mixed precipitation continued throughout the day.

However, conditions are expected to improve today. Nathan Lynum, meteorologist at the National Weather Service office in Negaunee Township, said scattered snow showers and a chance of sleet and light freezing rain are expected throughout the day today.

“We do want to remind people to be careful as there will be slick driving conditions,” he said.

The inclement weather should start to wrap up across the U.P. from the west end to the east beginning this afternoon, he said.

Wednesday’s closures and cancelations included Marquette Area Public Schools, Northern Michigan University, Baraga County School District, Bay College Escanaba and Iron Mountain, Breitung Township Schools, Gwinn Area Community Schools, Houghton/Keweenaw County Schools, Ishpeming Senior Center, Ishpeming Public Schools, NICE Community Schools, Negaunee Public Schools, the Negaunee Senior Center and the Marquette Regional History Center. All Community Action Alger Marquette senior meals were canceled due to the weather.

Many areas reported power outages due to the storm, including Baraga, Delta, Houghton, Iron, Keweenaw, Marquette, Ontonagon and Schoolcraft counties. Multiple downed powerline poles were reported in Delta County.

Troopers with the Michigan State Police Gladstone Post on Wednesday advised OO.25 Road was closed between 19th Lane and 17th Road in Garden Township due to multiple downed powerline poles blocking the roadway caused by inclement winter weather.

Cloverland Electric crews were on scene to repair damages and reopen the roadway. The Garden Township Fire Department was on scene assisting troopers with traffic control.

The road was reopened to one lane of travel by 3 p.m. the same day.

Officials with the Michigan State Police Gladstone Post still advised area residents to stay home.

Taylor Johnson can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 248. Her email address is tjohnson@miningjournal.net.