Grand Rapids, MI — As temperatures begin to drop, many in western Michigan are thinking about the arrival of the first snow. Cities like Grand Rapids, Muskegon, and Kalamazoo have experienced measurable snowfall as early as October, according to historical data.
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Grand Rapids shared the earliest snowfall records for several Michigan cities. According to the NWS, Grand Rapids saw its earliest measurable snowfall on October 7, 2000, with 0.5 inches recorded. Muskegon and Kalamazoo also experienced early snowfalls on October 7, in 1978 and 1906, respectively. These snowfalls marked the start of early winters that caught many residents by surprise.
Other cities, such as Lansing, saw significant snow accumulations as early as October 12, 1909, and October 12, 2006, with 1.0 and 3.5 inches recorded. For residents of Michigan, snowfall in October can be a reminder that winter is quickly approaching. With current temperatures dropping, local communities may begin preparing for the first flakes of the season.
The early appearance of snow in these cities shows how unpredictable Michigan’s weather can be, with fall quickly turning into winter.
