Update: The National Weather Service issued a Freeze Warning for Allegan, Barry, Calhoun, Ionia, Kalamazoo, Kent, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, Ottawa, and Van Buren Counties starting Tuesday, April 20 at 8 p.m. and running through Thursday, April 22 at 11:00 a.m.
While it's possible extreme southern sections may see some light snow showers mixed with rain showers today, the chance of any real accumulating snow continues to shift south/east our forecast area. Our weather forecast models have been trending further south/east (toward northern Ohio) with the best chances for accumulating snow. Take a look below at our forecast models for snow output.
More importantly, sub-freezing temperatures may threaten fruit crops this week. Commercial growers are at the greatest risk, especially if readings dip to the mid/upper 20s for several hours. Recall that two weeks ago we reached well into the 70s, even our first 80 in many spots. That accelerated the budding process, and now those same buds are in jeopardy of being damaged by a late season frost/freeze.
On Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, daytime readings will be running well below normal. Look for highs in the upper 30s/lower 40s Tuesday/Wednesday, with only upper 40s on Thursday. Normally we'd be at 60 for this time of year. While the commercial fruit growers have a much harder time in protecting their trees/buds, local folks that may have planted a garden should cover things up or bring in the plants Wednesday and Thursday morning. Generally speaking, we usually say to wait until at least Mother's Day weekend in West Michigan to plant the garden.
Get the complete West Michigan forecast at www.fox17online.com/weather.
