GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Residents of western Michigan should prepare for frost formation overnight Thursday, as temperatures are expected to fall to around 32°F, prompting a Frost Advisory issued by the National Weather Service (NWS).
Frost Advisory Details
The advisory is in effect from midnight to 9 a.m. EDT Thursday and covers the counties of Muskegon, Ottawa, Kent, Allegan, Barry, Van Buren, and Kalamazoo. Major cities affected include Grand Rapids, Holland, Kalamazoo, South Haven, and Muskegon.
According to NWS meteorologists, clear skies and light winds will allow heat to escape rapidly overnight, leading to the coldest morning of the fall season so far.
Protecting Plants and Gardens
Frost can damage or kill sensitive plants, including outdoor flowers and garden crops. Residents are advised to:
- Cover vulnerable plants or bring them indoors tonight
- Take precautions for agricultural operations, orchards, or vineyards to prevent crop loss
This is particularly important for homeowners and farmers alike, as temperatures hovering near 32°F can have significant impacts on local vegetation.
Morning Commute Considerations
Early commuters should anticipate frost-covered windshields on Thursday morning, especially along I-96, US-131, and I-196. The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) recommends allowing extra time to scrape windshields and adjust driving for potentially slick surfaces.
Weather Outlook After the Frost
Following the chilly start, sunshine will return by midmorning, with temperatures climbing into the upper 50s to near 60°F. A gradual warming trend is expected through the weekend, bringing milder afternoons and crisp, cool nights typical of mid-October in Michigan.
Residents are reminded to continue monitoring local weather updates and prepare for cool overnight temperatures throughout the week.
Call to Action
How are you protecting your plants and preparing for the chilly morning in Grand Rapids? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below to help neighbors stay safe and keep their gardens intact this fall.
