Michigan roads shine with a dull winter glaze this morning as cold air and moisture collide across West Michigan, setting the stage for a tricky holiday travel stretch.
Temperatures sit near 29 degrees, cold enough to keep pavement vulnerable as precipitation approaches. Clouds hold firm, and humidity remains high. According to the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids, the main concern arrives late Thursday night into Friday, when freezing rain is possible before changing to plain rain.
That brief window matters. Even light icing can coat bridges, ramps, and side streets, creating black ice hazards during peak Christmas travel. Drivers may encounter sudden slick spots, especially before midday Friday.
Rain becomes more likely as temperatures rise into the upper 30s Friday, easing icing concerns. Still, wet pavement lingers into Friday night. Any untreated surfaces may refreeze once colder air returns.
Saturday offers a short break. Skies stay mostly cloudy, but temperatures climb into the low 40s, helping roads dry during daylight hours. For many, this becomes the best window for post-Christmas return trips.
Conditions change again by Sunday. Rain may redevelop early, then mix with snow as colder air pushes back in. Winds increase, adding a biting feel and lowering visibility during passing snow showers. By Sunday night, snow showers become more likely, with temperatures dropping sharply.
Meteorologists warn this warm-to-cold swing often causes more crashes than heavy snow. Slush freezes fast after sunset, especially on overpasses and rural roads.
Slow down. Leave extra space. Winter is settling in across West Michigan.
📅 Five-Day Outlook — Grand Rapids, MI
- Today: Mostly cloudy. High near 38°F
- Christmas Day: Mostly cloudy. High near 37°F
- Friday: Freezing rain early, then rain. High near 37°F
- Saturday: Mostly cloudy. High near 42°F
- Sunday: Rain changing to snow, breezy. High near 40°F
