GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – A widespread hard freeze hit much of central and western Michigan early Thursday, sending temperatures into the mid-20s and low 30s between 3AM and 9AM EDT. The National Weather Service said conditions were cold enough to damage unprotected crops, gardens, and outdoor plumbing across Mason, Clare, Ionia, Ingham, and surrounding counties.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids, a Freeze Warning remains in effect until 9AM EDT for much of the region, including Grand Rapids, Lansing, Battle Creek, and Jackson. The coldest air pooled in rural and low-lying areas where calm winds allowed heavy frost to form on fields, rooftops, and windshields. Temperatures will rebound into the upper 40s under bright afternoon sunshine.
Officials urge residents to protect tender vegetation and outdoor plumbing before the next round of cold nights. Gardeners should cover or bring in potted plants, and homeowners are advised to disconnect hoses and insulate exposed pipes. Farmers in Montcalm, Isabella, and Gratiot counties could see damage to late-season produce left uncovered overnight.
According to the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, the freeze likely ends the growing season across west-central Michigan. Drivers should use caution for patchy frost on rural roads during early commutes. Cooler-than-average temperatures linger into the weekend before a gradual warm-up begins early next week.
