Weather

Actions

Tracking the Next Storm: Some Spots Could See 10 Inches

Posted at 10:24 AM, Dec 31, 2013
and last updated 2013-12-31 11:14:42-05

123113snowtotalsWEST MICHIGAN — A developing storm system in the Great Plains will move east tonight bringing the potential for heavy snow into West Michigan. Subtle differences in the forecast track have a snow totals varying greatly as weather models struggle to handle the developing low pressure.

Snow should move in along the Indiana border by early evening and spread north to I-96. Areas north of I-96 will likely only see light snow showers as most of the models confine the snow band through Grand Rapids and south. As the low strengthens and moves east, it will create snow bands that will likely train over the same areas leading to the potential for larger accumulations along the Michigan-Indiana border. With a westerly movement to the system, winds off of the lake in Southwest Michigan will create a lake enhancement to the snow bands and intensify snowfall rates.

With arctic air in place, it makes for efficient snow production and with an extended event the possibility for high totals in the south is high. Areas along and south of I-94 could see totals of 5 to 9 inches with locally heavier amounts along the Lakeshore. Areas south of I-96 will likely see smaller totals as a large snowfall gradient will set up through the Grand Rapids metro area with some areas not seeing much at all and others seeing between 2 to 4 inches.

Temperatures will remain frigid into the New Year, as skies clear Thursday temperatures will drop and many will experience the coldest temperatures so far this season