As what is being called a “potentially historic blizzard” bears down on the region, the National Weather Service has issued a blizzard warning from 5 a.m. Eastern time Sunday through 8 a.m. Tuesday for Alger, Delta, Luce and Schoolcraft counties.

Snowfall totals are expected to range from 2 to 3 feet across the Upper Peninsula, with some areas possibly seeing up to 4 feet — the NWS office specifically named the northcentral and eastern U.P. for these higher amounts. Winds could gust from 35 to 65 mph, with higher speeds on the Keweenaw Peninsula and Lake Superior shores.

Travel should be restricted to emergencies only, NWS advised. If traveling, motorists should have a winter survival kit and stay with their vehicle if they get stranded.

State Sen. Ed McBroom, R-Waucedah Township, posted on Facebook:

“Dear U.P. friends and neighbors,

“The storm approaching looks to be one of the most serious we have had in over 40 years. Road commissions and other local governments are warning that clearing the snow afterwards might take much longer than what we are accustomed to waiting. Rep. (Karl) Bohnak (editor’s note: a longtime television meteorologist) says this may be the biggest he has seen hit us in his career. Others are comparing it to storms in ’78 and further back. Phones and electricity may be out for an extended period.

“Please take time to plan, especially if you have serious medical needs. Plan to avoid being on the road Sunday and Monday — maybe Tuesday too. Staying with friends or at a motel in town may be a wise decision for those way out in the country. U.P. folks are tough and look out for each other, but a big storm will take time, especially to get to the outer areas. It will be good to check on neighbors, especially the elderly.

“We’ve checked in and the (Michigan) State Police and Gov’s (Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s) office are keeping a close eye and will be ready to help should emergencies arise. Our local agencies and governments, along with most businesses are going to be tied up with snow removal and emergency services for some time. But, like so many other challenges we face, the U.P. will emerge stronger on the other side. You all are in our prayers.

“Sincerely, Ed, John, Greg, Dave, Karl, and Parker.”

In Wisconsin, where the blizzard warnings extend south to the Stevens Point and Fox Valley areas, Gov. Tony Evers on Saturday declared a state of emergency ahead of the storm. This system was expected to affect the entire state.