GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Very cold air is expected to arrive in West Michigan just in time for Thanksgiving, potentially creating travel headaches for some.
Once the cold air arrives on Wednesday, it is expected to stay for at least a week.
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An active storm track will likely bring a second system to the region over the weekend following Thanksgiving, with the possibility of more accumulating snow. Temperatures below only tell part of the story, with wind chills likely in the teens later Wednesday and Thanksgiving Day.
WEDNESDAY
An incoming system is expected to deliver rain early in the morning, with a transition to windy, colder and snowy conditions by the evening. Expect falling temperatures through the day and wind chills in the teens by sunset.
A strong wind will usher in the transition to winter Wednesday. Gusts inland will eclipse 40 mph with lakeshore locations near 50 mph.
While air temperatures will remain above freezing during the day, roads will become slick after dark.
THURSDAY
Be sure to bundle up for those Turkey Trots: Thanksgiving will be breezy and chilly with temperatures hovering around 30 degrees and wind chills slipping into the teens at times. Lake-effect snow will remain persistent though the day, with some blowing snow as winds remain strong.
A white Thanksgiving looks likely for many, with a fresh 1 to 3 inches a good bet for most by Thursday morning with additional snowfall through Friday morning. Driving with the wind-driven snow will be challenging, especially along the lakeshore and north of Grand Rapids.
Lake-effect snow will ease throughout the day Friday, with cold air and extensive clouds holding in place. The wind will subside quite a bit.
An active storm track is expected to bring a second system to West Michigan Saturday and Sunday. There is a lot of variability still with this storm, but there is a chance it could bring another round of accumulating snow Saturday.
Stay with Storm Team 8 for the latest on track, timing and impacts…