Michigan Weather Alert: First Day of Winter Brings Light Snow and 18°F Cold Today as Christmas Travel Nears

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Michigan – Snowflakes drift through the air this morning as winter announces itself across western Michigan. The crunch under boots is unmistakable. Temperatures sit in the teens, and wind chills dip close to zero at times, making even short trips feel biting.

According to the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids, light snow tapers this morning, but cold air remains locked in place. Highs struggle to reach the upper 20s today, with gusty west-northwest winds continuing to dry and chill road surfaces. Bridges, ramps, and untreated neighborhood roads may remain slick through midday, especially along US-131 and M-6.

Conditions begin to shift Monday. Clouds increase, and temperatures climb toward the upper 30s by afternoon. Snow showers may redevelop midday, then mix with rain later in the day as warmer air works in. By Monday night, scattered rain and snow showers continue, keeping pavement wet and potentially slushy after sunset.

By Tuesday, a brief break arrives. Skies turn partly sunny, and highs reach the lower 40s. To be fair, that thaw helps roads improve, but it also sets up classic early-winter hazards. Any moisture left behind can refreeze late at night when temperatures dip below freezing again.

Midweek brings another change as Christmas travel ramps up. Clouds thicken Wednesday, and rain chances increase Wednesday night into Christmas Day. While widespread snow is not expected, wet roads and reduced visibility could slow holiday traffic during peak travel periods.

Winter is easing its grip for now, but it is far from finished. Keep winter kits stocked, slow down on slick stretches, and watch for flash-freeze spots during colder nights. Are you seeing slick roads where you live this morning?

Five-Day Outlook for Grand Rapids, Michigan
Today: Light snow ending, cold, high near 26.
Monday: Chance of snow then rain/snow mix, high near 37.
Tuesday: Partly sunny, high near 42.
Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, high near 41.
Christmas Day: Cloudy with a chance of rain, high near 44.