Grand Rapids, MI – Drivers across West Michigan should prepare for dangerous travel conditions late tonight into Friday as a widespread freezing rain event moves into the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids, freezing rain is expected to develop late Thursday night and continue through early to mid-afternoon Friday, with periods of rain possibly mixing in across parts of southwest Michigan. Forecasters say a glaze of ice is likely area-wide, with some locations potentially seeing up to 0.25 inches of ice accumulation.
The greatest threat window begins overnight Thursday, intensifies during the Friday morning commute, and lingers into the early afternoon hours. Areas including Grand Rapids, Lansing, Muskegon, Big Rapids, Mount Pleasant, Jackson, Flint, and Cadillac fall within the zone of highest icing potential.
Even light ice accumulation can cause significant problems. The National Weather Service warns that roads will become slick and icy, especially bridges, overpasses, and untreated surfaces. The added weight of ice on trees and power lines could also lead to localized power outages, particularly where ice totals approach a quarter inch.
Temperatures are expected to remain near or below freezing during much of the event, allowing ice to accumulate quickly despite occasional rain mixing in. Conditions should gradually improve later Friday afternoon as temperatures rise and precipitation tapers off.
Officials urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel Friday morning if possible. If driving is unavoidable, motorists are advised to slow down, increase following distance, and be alert for rapidly changing road conditions.
Residents should also ensure flashlights, batteries, and devices are charged in case of brief power disruptions and continue monitoring updated forecasts and advisories as the system evolves.
