Grand Rapids, Mich. – A sharp drop in temperatures could damage crops and outdoor plumbing across west-central Michigan as a freeze warning takes effect from midnight through 8 a.m. Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids, sub-freezing lows near 25°F are expected overnight in Clare, Gratiot, Isabella, Mecosta, Montcalm, Osceola, Lake, Mason, Newaygo, and Oceana counties. Cities under the warning include Mount Pleasant, Big Rapids, Greenville, and Ludington.
Cold-sensitive vegetation and newly planted crops are at significant risk. Residents are urged to cover or bring in tender plants and ensure outdoor faucets and irrigation systems are winterized or insulated. Even brief exposure to these temperatures can cause permanent damage to unprotected greenery and plumbing.
This is the first widespread freeze warning of the spring for many of these counties, following a period of above-normal temperatures earlier this month. Local growers and gardeners should take immediate precautions.
The freeze warning remains in effect through 8 a.m. Wednesday. Additional advisories are possible if cold air lingers into Thursday morning.
