Grand Rapids, MI – Travel is strongly discouraged near and west of US-131 today as dangerous winter weather creates whiteout conditions and hazardous roadways across West Michigan.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids, lake-effect snow bands combined with strong winds are producing rapidly changing visibility and snow-covered roads Sunday morning, January 19, 2026. The impacts extend into the afternoon hours before conditions are expected to slowly improve later today.
Officials report whiteouts, slide-offs, and crashes already observed on major routes, including I-196 and sections of US-131, based on Michigan Department of Transportation traffic cameras. Winds are steadily increasing across the region, causing very powdery snow to be lifted and blown across roadways, significantly reducing visibility.
Several inches of new snow are expected to accumulate through the day, with snowfall rates reaching around half an inch per hour in the heaviest lake-effect bands. Wind gusts between 35 and 40 mph are further worsening travel conditions, particularly in open and rural areas.
The most hazardous travel window is expected from this morning into the afternoon. Snow showers are forecast to continue into tonight, especially for communities closer to Lake Michigan, though winds are expected to gradually ease as the event winds down.
Drivers who must travel are urged to slow down, allow extra stopping distance, and carry an emergency winter kit. Authorities recommend postponing non-essential travel today, especially for those living near the lakeshore or planning to travel west toward the US-131 corridor.
Residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts and road condition updates before heading out and to check MDOT cameras for real-time visibility and traffic impacts.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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