GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – A biting wind and slick roads are setting the stage for a dramatic weekend shift across western Michigan as a November chill surges in. After a stretch of damp, mild days, colder air sweeping south from Canada will trigger a quick transition from rain to snow Sunday — a sharp reminder that winter is edging closer.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids, showers early Saturday will mix with falling temperatures by evening. The region could see its first measurable snow of the season late Saturday night through Sunday morning, with light accumulations possible on grassy and elevated surfaces. The changeover could make for slippery driving along I-96, U.S. 131, and local county roads, especially north of Holland and east toward Lowell.
Forecasters say gusty winds up to 30 mph will accompany the shift, lowering wind chills into the 20s by Sunday night. Power crews and public works teams are preparing for brief bursts of heavy wet snow and slick intersections. Residents are urged to secure outdoor decorations, charge devices, and check vehicle antifreeze before temperatures plunge.
The colder push continues into early next week as a broader Arctic front expands from the Plains to the Great Lakes. By Veterans Day, highs may struggle to reach the upper 30s — a full 20 degrees below seasonal averages.
For now, light rain, brisk air, and the first whiffs of snow will dominate the weekend, signaling the unmistakable start of Michigan’s long winter stretch.
Five-Day Forecast for Grand Rapids, MI:
Fri: 56/35 – Breezy and mild; lingering light showers early.
Sat: 45/31 – Falling temps; late rain may mix with wet snow.
Sun: 39/23 – Rain and snow likely; slushy roads by morning.
Mon: 37/26 – Chance of snow showers; colder, partly sunny later.
Tue: 42/28 – Mostly cloudy and cold; blustery at times.
