Michigan wakes under a dim, overcast sky this morning as light flakes drift across Grand Rapids and the surrounding lakeshore counties. Pavement carries a thin, gritty sheen, the kind that freezes fast once steadier lake-effect snow begins sweeping inland this afternoon. It’s a classic early-winter setup across southwest Lower Michigan—quiet now, but poised to shift quickly.
According to the National Weather Service, snow will build along the lakeshore later today, then push eastward this evening as colder air deepens behind a broad upper trough. Blowing snow is possible near the lakeshore, creating pockets of reduced visibility and slick spots on US-131, I-96, and local rural corridors. Drivers should prepare for sudden changes in conditions, especially during the late-day commute.
Meteorologists now track a multi-day lake-effect stretch, continuing Saturday through Sunday with periodic bursts of snow. While accumulations stay on the lighter side—generally 1–2 inches with locally higher pockets—any snowfall may worsen travel because temperatures will sit in the single digits to teens, allowing flash freezing on bridges and shaded roads. Gusty northwest winds could send wind chills near zero and possibly toward 10 below Sunday morning.
Saturday brings steadier snow showers, highest along Ionia, Ottawa, Kent, and Allegan Counties. Conditions may improve briefly Sunday afternoon, though light snow remains possible as colder air filters in. Bundle up for holiday errands, outdoor events, and early travel plans; prolonged exposure in this kind of cold can become risky without proper layers.
A gradual dry stretch arrives Monday, but the cold holds firm.
5-DAY OUTLOOK
• Today: Snow showers late; highs near 29.
• Saturday: Snow showers; highs near 16.
• Sunday: Mostly cloudy; highs near 22; single-digit wind chills.
• Monday: Mostly cloudy; highs near 24.
• Tuesday: Mostly cloudy; highs near 36.
