LANSING - The Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division is advising all Michiganders to prepare themselves for a severe winter storm consisting of mixed precipitation taking place in the Lower Peninsula this weekend.

“My office, along with state departments, will be closely monitoring weather conditions as they develop and proactively coordinating with emergency managers to support local response efforts as appropriate. We are also encouraging Michiganders to be safe and take precautions during these extreme weather conditions that are being predicted this weekend" said Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

The National Weather Service (NWS) predicts 2 to 4 inches beginning Friday and transitioning to a wintry mix consisting of freezing rain and sleet before changing to snow late Saturday. As well as possible power outages and tree damage due to ice.

“Both flooding and freezing rain have the ability to be life-threatening,” said Captain Emmitt McGowan, deputy state director of Homeland Security and commander of the MSP/EMHSD. “Michigan residents should take steps to prepare now. Keeping supplies like a flashlight, a portable radio and a working cell phone with a backup power source on-hand can help keep you and your family safe during an emergency.”

During a power outage:
Do not touch any downed power lines or objects with downed lines.
Use battery powered lanterns.
Avoid actions resulting in hazardous levels of carbon monoxide.
Use extreme caution when driving, especially when traffic lights are out.

When preparing for a winter storm:
Stay indoors as much as possible.
If you need to go outside, make sure you wear protective gear.
When driving make sure you check the weather and to wash your vehicle for better visibility.

In cases of flooding:
Create an emergency preparedness kit.
Carefully store important documents and valuables.
Do not try to drive through a flooded road or around a barricade.
Do not take shortcuts, as they might be blocked.
Be especially cautious driving at night.

For more information on how to prepare before, during and after an emergency or disaster, visit michigan.gov/miready or follow MSP/EMHSD on Twitter at @MichEMHS.