WEST MICHIGAN — The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for all of the counties shaded in purple, from noon today until 9:00 tonight. An Alberta Clipper dropping in from the northwest will bring unseasonably cold air and periods of heavy snow to the area this afternoon and this evening. In addition, west/southwest winds gusting as high as 35 mph will cause some blowing and drifting snow. Snow accumulations will generally be 1 to 2 inches, but heavier amounts are possible to the north of M-46. Counties along and south of I-94 will likely just see a rain/snow mix with snow accumulations of an inch or less.
Drivers will have to re-adjust to winter driving conditions after going without significant snow for the past four weeks in the Grand Rapids area. The wet, heavy nature of the snow will make the roads especially slippery this afternoon and this evening.
As mentioned above, the snow won’t be as heavy south of Grand Rapids. However, wind will be more of an issue as west/southwest gusts of 45 mph are possible this afternoon. A wind advisory will take effect later this morning for the areas shaded in this tan-brown color below:
Here, the strong winds combined with a rain/snow mix will also make travel challenging, especially for high profile vehicles on north-south roadways.
The bottom line for travelers is this: slow down out there today and allow some extra time to reach your destination, and allow plenty of space between you and the vehicle ahead of you. If you don’t have to travel this afternoon and this evening, it’s probably better to stay home. Be sure to stay tuned to FOX 17 for further weather updates throughout the weekend, including information on another clipper system impacting the area tomorrow night.
