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Coolest air of the season is here this weekend

Posted at 7:00 AM, Oct 08, 2016
and last updated 2016-10-08 10:56:41-04

WEST MICHIGAN — It’s been a warm start to October overall, but the chilliest airmass we’ve experienced so far this season is now here. Today’s highs are forecast to stay in the 50s in most areas, which is about 20 degrees colder than we were yesterday.

In fact, yesterday’s high of 78° in Grand Rapids topped off a four day streak with highs of 70° or above, and every single day so far this month has been warmer than the long term average.

October 2016 is running 7.4° above average as of yesterday. This is a significant departure from average for a seven day period, with temperatures typical of what Louisville, KY would experience at this time of year.

The cooler air we’re experiencing today is moving in behind a strong cold front that has now cleared the entire state and is pushing into the Northeast U.S. Here is a look at where this front is as of this early morning writing:

mw_fronts

West to northwesterly winds gusting to 25 mph behind this front will make it feel even cooler this afternoon.

It will also be a chilly night tonight as winds diminish and skies stay mostly clear. Here is a look at what Future Track HD is forecasting for low temperatures across the area tonight:

future_track_temps

As you can see, our model is forecasting lows in the middle to upper 30s at most inland locations. I am forecasting a low of 38° for Grand Rapids, which would be our coldest morning since May 15th when the mercury dropped to 36°.

Warmer air is in the extended forecast with highs in the upper 60s by Tuesday. Even tomorrow afternoon will feel quite a bit more comfortable with highs in the lower 60s along with much lighter winds.