Grand Rapids, Michigan – Drivers across Western Michigan should prepare for slick roads and slower travel beginning Thursday evening as snow showers spread across the region and linger into Friday morning, with the most noticeable impacts expected during peak commute hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids, light snow is expected Thursday through Friday, with widespread totals of 1 to 2 inches across much of the region. Higher amounts of 2 to 4 inches are possible in northwest portions of Western Michigan, especially along the Lake Michigan shoreline north of Muskegon. In addition to snow, a light glaze of ice from freezing drizzle is possible Thursday evening, increasing the risk of slippery conditions.
Travel impacts are most likely Thursday evening and again Friday morning as snow-covered and icy roads develop. Major routes including I-96 through Grand Rapids, US-131 from Kalamazoo to Big Rapids, I-196 toward Holland, and US-31 along the lakeshore could see reduced traction and patchy visibility in heavier snow showers. Bridges and overpasses are expected to become slick first as temperatures hover near freezing.
Communities near Muskegon, Ludington, and Whitehall may see the greatest accumulation, where lake-enhanced snow showers persist longer overnight. Inland areas such as Grand Rapids, Holland, and Ionia should still expect periods of snow that could slow traffic and extend commute times.
Drivers are urged to slow down, leave extra space between vehicles, and allow additional time to reach destinations. Pedestrians should also use caution on sidewalks and parking lots, especially where freezing drizzle develops.
Snow showers are expected to taper off Friday afternoon as conditions gradually improve. While this system is not expected to produce heavy totals, even light snow and ice can cause significant travel disruptions. Additional updates may be issued if freezing drizzle becomes more widespread or if snow bands intensify near the lakeshore.
