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Saturday warming up nicely after a cold start

Posted at 6:10 AM, Nov 12, 2016
and last updated 2016-11-12 09:36:28-05

WEST MICHIGAN — After the coldest night we’ve had this fall season, temperatures will warm to average or even slightly above average levels this afternoon across the FOX 17 viewing area. (The long-term average high in Grand Rapids for this date is 49° and the average low is 34°.)

The reason we were so cold last night and this morning: A chilly area of high pressure from Canada slid into the region. Here is a look at where that high is right now:

mw_fronts

On the northwest side of this big, “double-barrel” area of high pressure, west to southwesterly winds are bringing milder air into the northern Plains. In fact, it’s warmer in places like Houghton/Hancock, MI and Minot, ND than it is here as of this early morning writing:

mw_temps

As that area of high pressure slides to the south and east of us this afternoon and tonight, that milder air will gradually make its way into West Michigan. Here is a look at where Future Track HD sees our temperatures tomorrow morning:

future_track_temps

Although I think the 40s you see on the above image might be a little optimistic, it will certainly be a milder overnight than last with no 20s expected.

In the extended forecast, it looks breezy and warmer tomorrow. Our next chance of rain will only be a slight one on Tuesday as an upper level disturbance pushes through the area. After a couple of more dry days Wednesday and Thursday, a better chance of rain will arrive on Friday along with warm temperatures for this time of year.