Grand Rapids, MI – Michigan’s late-fall pattern takes a sharp turn this week as rain sweeps in midweek, followed by a noticeable chill that could hint at the region’s first wintry mix by the weekend. Commuters and early holiday travelers should prepare for slick roads Thursday night into Friday as temperatures tumble from the 50s into the 30s.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids, Thursday brings partly sunny skies early, then increasing clouds with rain likely after sunset. Showers will intensify Thursday night, with an 80% chance of rain extending into Friday morning before colder air filters in from the northwest. By Friday evening, lingering precipitation could briefly mix with wet snowflakes north and inland as temperatures dip toward freezing.
Wednesday remains mostly sunny and mild near 56°F before the shift begins. Winds will increase later in the day, gusting near 25 mph. Thursday’s high will hold around 53°F, but readings plunge by nightfall. Friday’s high may barely reach the mid-40s before sliding toward a brisk weekend.
Saturday stays partly sunny but chilly, with highs in the upper 40s. Another round of light rain—or a rain/snow mix—could return late Saturday night into Sunday morning. For now, accumulations appear minor, but the pattern signals an early start to Michigan’s winter transition.
Those planning Veterans Day events or early Thanksgiving travel should keep an eye on changing conditions. The next notable system could arrive early next week, potentially bringing Michigan’s first measurable snow to parts of the Lower Peninsula.
