GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – A burst of summerlike warmth will close out the weekend across western Michigan, but cooler air and rain will move in quickly by Tuesday night, bringing a dramatic shift to fall conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids, temperatures will climb into the mid-80s today, marking one of the last warm stretches of early October. But a cold front moving in from the west will trigger showers and a few thunderstorms Monday afternoon and evening, especially along and north of I-96. Gusty south winds up to 25 mph may accompany the storms before a sharp cooldown sweeps through.
By Tuesday, highs will tumble into the upper 60s, with clearing skies late in the day and lows dropping into the low 40s. Cooler, drier air will dominate midweek, with patchy frost possible by Thursday morning, especially in rural Kent, Ottawa, and Muskegon counties.
Residents are urged to finish Halloween decorating and pumpkin patch visits today before rain arrives. Gardeners should plan to protect sensitive plants later this week. Drivers should use caution during Monday’s evening commute when rain could briefly reduce visibility on I-96 and M-6.
The rest of the week looks crisp and quiet — ideal for fall color viewing, but a reminder that the first frost of the season may not be far off.
Five-Day Forecast for Grand Rapids, MI:
Sun: 85/63 – Sunny, warm; breezy south winds.
Mon: 83/67 – Showers, isolated thunder; gusts to 25 mph.
Tue: 67/42 – Cooler; morning showers, then clearing.
Wed: 65/39 – Sunny and crisp; calm winds.
Thu: 60/40 – Patchy frost early; sunny and cool.
