Grand Rapids, MI – A true blast of winter will grip the Great Lakes region through Thanksgiving weekend as Arctic air pours south, generating lake-effect snow, biting wind chills, and hazardous travel from Wisconsin to western New York. The cold pattern will settle in late Friday and linger well into early next week.
According to the National Weather Service offices in Grand Rapids, MI, and Cleveland, OH, temperatures between November 28 and December 4 will run 10 to 20 degrees below normal. Highs will struggle to reach the mid-30s across lower Michigan and northern Ohio, with overnight lows plunging into the 20s. The influx of cold, dry air over the still-mild lakes could trigger intense snow bands off Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, and Lake Erie.
According to the Michigan Department of Transportation, reduced visibility and snow-covered stretches are likely along I-96, I-75, and U.S. 131 this weekend, especially under heavier lake-effect bands. Northwest winds gusting 30–40 mph will produce blowing snow, drifting, and wind chills in the teens. Air travelers at Chicago O’Hare, Detroit Metro, and Cleveland Hopkins could see de-icing delays during the holiday return rush.
Residents and drivers are urged to prepare for winter conditions—keep extra clothing and emergency kits in vehicles, charge phones, and check road conditions frequently. Outdoor plans and lake travel should be postponed where advisories are in effect.
