Grand Rapids, Michigan – Dangerously cold air continues to grip western and central Michigan, with biting wind chills dropping as low as 25 degrees below zero and creating hazardous conditions for anyone outdoors through Saturday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids, an Extreme Cold Warning remains in effect until 11 AM EST Saturday for portions of west-central, southwest, south-central, and central Michigan. Officials warn that frostbite can develop on exposed skin in 30 minutes or less, with hypothermia likely if proper precautions are not taken.
The warning includes Kent, Ottawa, Muskegon, Ionia, Clinton, Montcalm, Gratiot, Mecosta, Isabella, Newaygo, Oceana, Mason, Lake, Osceola, and Clare counties. Cities impacted include Grand Rapids, Muskegon, Grand Haven, Ludington, Big Rapids, Mount Pleasant, Greenville, Ionia, Alma, St. Johns, Fremont, and Hart.
Emergency managers urge residents to avoid unnecessary outdoor activity, especially early Saturday morning. Those who must be outside should wear insulated layers, hats, gloves, and face protection. Prolonged freezing temperatures may also lead to ruptured water pipes, and homeowners are advised to protect exposed plumbing.
The Extreme Cold Warning remains in effect through 11 AM Saturday, with conditions expected to slowly improve later in the day. Additional advisories could be issued if cold temperatures persist into the weekend.
