Grand Rapids, MI – The first real taste of fall chill will grip western Michigan tonight as frost and even a brief freeze may touch low-lying inland areas. Temperatures are expected to dip into the low 30s, marking the coldest night of the season so far and prompting early-season frost precautions for sensitive vegetation.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids, frost and freezing temperatures are expected tonight across Mason, Oceana, Newaygo, Mecosta, Isabella, Muskegon, Ottawa, Kent, Ionia, Allegan, Barry, Eaton, Van Buren, Calhoun, and Jackson counties. The weather service advises residents to protect tender plants and outdoor plumbing before temperatures fall after sunset.
After a cold start Thursday morning, sunshine will return with highs rebounding into the lower 60s. The warming trend continues into the weekend, though another round of patchy frost is possible early Thursday before milder southerly winds take hold. A weak disturbance may bring light showers Friday night, mainly west of U.S. 131, but no hazardous weather is expected through early next week.
Drivers along I-96, I-196, and U.S. 131 should watch for patchy fog or frost on bridges and rural roads early Thursday. Residents are urged to dress in layers, bring pets indoors, and disconnect garden hoses to avoid freeze damage.
Five-Day Forecast for Grand Rapids, MI:
Wed: 61/33 – Sunny; calm evening, frost develops late.
Thu: 63/40 – Sunny; patchy frost early, light southeast breeze.
Fri: 64/46 – Mostly sunny; 30% chance of evening showers.
Sat: 67/45 – Mostly sunny; pleasant and dry.
Sun: 71/49 – Partly cloudy; milder afternoon.
