Grand Rapids, MI – Heavy lake-effect snow continues to pound western Michigan tonight as Arctic air sweeps over Lake Michigan, triggering intense snow squalls from Benton Harbor to Traverse City. The National Weather Service offices in Grand Rapids and Gaylord have multiple Winter Storm Warnings in effect through Monday evening, with localized totals of 8 to 14 inches expected near the lakeshore.
According to the National Weather Service, the strongest snow bands will persist through early Monday between Holland, Muskegon, and Ludington, gradually shifting north and east toward Grand Rapids and Cadillac by sunrise. Winds gusting over 30 mph will create whiteouts and deep drifts on I-196, US-31, and I-94, especially in open stretches. Travel is discouraged overnight and early Monday due to rapidly deteriorating visibility and slick pavement.
Road commissions from Ottawa, Allegan, and Muskegon Counties are reporting frequent plow operations, but snow rates near 2 inches per hour may quickly overcome treated surfaces. Forecasters caution that brief periods of thundersnow are possible near the lakeshore, with conditions varying sharply just a few miles inland.
Residents should charge devices, allow extra commute time, and avoid nonessential travel through Monday morning. Temperatures will stay in the 20s and lower 30s, keeping roads icy into the evening commute. Another round of light lake-effect flurries could return midweek as colder northwest winds persist.
