Weather
West Michigan Weather Alert: Rain to 28° Cold, Nov. 12-16
Michigan — Wet pavement, brisk northwest winds and a sharp temperature drop are setting up a colder stretch across West Michigan. Grand Rapids could fall from Thursday's 46 degree high to just 28 degr
By Blake Harrison · 2026-11-12T10:27:50.559Z
Michigan — Wet pavement, brisk northwest winds and a sharp temperature drop are setting up a colder stretch across West Michigan. Grand Rapids could fall from Thursday's 46 degree high to just 28 degrees by Friday morning, bringing the risk of freezing conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids, showers remain likely Thursday, with a 70% precipitation chance. Most rain is expected between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m., while northwest winds could gust to 28 mph.
For drivers traveling Interstate 96, US 131 and Interstate 196, wet roads and falling temperatures deserve attention as the day progresses.
Temperatures Tumble Toward Friday Morning Thursday evening brings a 30% chance of lingering showers before 7 p.m. Skies gradually clear, allowing temperatures to fall toward 28 degrees.
That represents an 18 degree difference between Thursday's daytime high and Friday morning's expected low.
Wet surfaces could become slippery where moisture remains as temperatures fall below freezing. Bridges, ramps and untreated surfaces deserve particular attention.
Friday brings mostly sunny skies, but temperatures only recover to approximately 43 degrees. Northwest winds could gust to 20 mph.
Weekend Weather Brings Sunshine, Not Much Warmth Saturday, November 14, offers a welcome break from the damp conditions.
Grand Rapids should reach 46 degrees under partly sunny skies, with lighter winds making outdoor activities more comfortable.
Saturday night temperatures fall near 30 degrees, bringing another opportunity for frost and freezing conditions.
Sunday brings partly sunny skies and a high near 48 degrees, followed by another chilly night around 30.
Residents hoping to finish leaf cleanup or secure outdoor decorations may find Saturday and Sunday more favorable than Thursday.
What About Snow Before Thanksgiving? The Weather Prediction Center reports that polar air is spreading across the eastern United States. Heavy lake effect snow is possible in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
However, the current Grand Rapids forecast does not indicate accumulating snow through Monday.
As Thanksgiving approaches, residents should monitor updated forecasts for potential changes rather than assume a snowstorm is imminent.