Easing smoke with possible rain shower Friday
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Air quality is forecast to improve Friday as warm temperatures remain and a scattered shower chance develops. TODAY Hazardous air quality conditions early Friday should greatly improve into the afternoon and especially the evening as winds shift southwesterly. A few pop-up showers and storm
Two from Colombia extradited, face federal drug trafficking charges in West Michigan
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Two Colombian nationals are facing charges after being accused of conspiring to move large amounts of cocaine into the United States, according to the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Timothy VerHey. According to an indictment, from November 2024 through June 24, 2025,...
Loons’ game at Dow Diamond postponed due to wildfire smoke
As wildfire smoke continues to render air unhealthy throughout Michigan and beyond, many organizations in Midland are canceling events or pivoting to help people avoid being outside in the smoky air.
Michigan lettuce grower highlights safety practices amid cyclosporiasis investigation
As Michigan health officials investigate a growing outbreak of cyclosporiasis that has been linked to lettuce and salad greens, a West Michigan greenhouse grower is emphasizing the food safety measures it uses to produce leafy greens. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said early investigation results
Fire department funding on Sparta’s August ballot
In January 2026, the Sparta Fire Department transitioned from a fire board to a fire authority, becoming its own recognized governmental entity. The Authority was established to ensure a smooth, uninterrupted transition of services should the village become a city. According to the Authority, funding for the fire depar
Smoke and heat create ‘double whammy’ for people who are unhoused
Some neighbors say the cost of running air conditioning is too high, forcing them outside despite dangerous air quality conditions. Others don't have a space to get out of the smoke.
Another smoky day; much-needed rain could be on the way. Get Bill Steffen’s weekend...
A satellite image from Thursday evening shows smoke over Michigan due to wildfires in Canada. It extended down past Chicago and Fort Wayne. With a southwest wind developing, the smoke should retreat a bit to the northeast today. However, much of the day will still be smoky in Grand Rapids and most of West Michigan.
Local labs busy with tests amid parasite outbreak
The cyclosporiasis outbreak is keeping West Michigan labs that test for the parasite busy.
Shift in wind and rain chance will provide temporary relief of smoke
A strong southwest wind Friday afternoon could provide much-needed relief of wildfire smoke in West Michigan.
Should you run AC when the air is filled with wildfire smoke?
When smoke from wildfires turns the outside air unhealthy, is it safe to run the air conditioner?
