Grand Rapids, MI – Triple-digit heat indices and scattered storms are moving in as Michigan heads into a steamy Independence Day weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids, high temperatures will surge to 91°F on the Fourth of July with calm southwest winds and clear skies through Friday. Heat continues to intensify Saturday, reaching 95°F — the hottest stretch of summer so far — before storm chances return Sunday night.
The biggest safety concern will be heat exposure, especially for those celebrating outdoors. Residents are urged to hydrate frequently, limit strenuous outdoor activity during peak heat, and never leave children or pets in parked vehicles. Cooling centers may open if humidity increases sharply.
By Sunday night, a cold front could trigger scattered thunderstorms across Kent, Ottawa, and Ionia counties. While severe weather isn’t guaranteed, any downpours may lead to slick conditions on I-96 and U.S. 131. Monday and Tuesday will bring slight cooling with highs in the upper 80s and more storm chances by Wednesday.
Travelers heading through West Michigan this weekend should monitor conditions closely, especially during peak traffic on Saturday afternoon and Sunday evening.
🌤 Five-Day Forecast for Grand Rapids, MI (Friday, July 4 – Tuesday, July 9):
- Friday (July 4): Sunny and hot. High near 91°F. Southwest wind 5–7 mph.
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high of 95°F. Very warm and humid.
- Sunday: High of 89°F. Slight chance of storms after 2 p.m., increasing into Sunday night.
- Monday: Mostly sunny. High near 83°F. Low near 61°F.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 85°F. Storm chances return Tuesday night.
