Grand Rapids, Michigan – Lake-effect snow showers combined with strong northwest winds are creating hazardous travel conditions across West Michigan this evening, with snow-covered roads, blowing snow, and sharply reduced visibility impacting the commute.
Snow showers will continue through tonight, with additional accumulations generally up to 1 inch across the Grand Rapids metro. Heavier totals are expected closer to Lake Michigan, where communities from Muskegon to South Haven could pick up 1 to 3 inches, especially along and west of US-131. According to the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids, northwest wind gusts reaching up to 45 mph are causing blowing and drifting snow, making conditions deteriorate quickly on open roadways.
Drivers should be prepared for slippery roads and sudden visibility drops, particularly on north–south routes such as US-131, M-6, and I-196. Even areas seeing lighter snowfall may experience hazardous conditions as wind-driven snow blows back across treated pavement. According to the National Weather Service, accidents become more likely during lake-effect events due to rapidly changing conditions over short distances.
The highest impacts are expected through the evening hours before snow showers gradually diminish late tonight. Temperatures remain in the upper 20s to near 30 degrees, allowing snow to stick on untreated surfaces. Pedestrians are also urged to use caution on sidewalks and parking lots, where icy patches may be hidden beneath fresh snow.
Residents are advised to reduce driving speeds, allow extra braking distance, and plan for longer travel times. Keeping headlights on and minimizing in-vehicle distractions can also improve safety during periods of poor visibility. While snowfall totals will remain modest for many locations, the combination of wind and snow will continue to pose challenges through the evening.
