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Winter Weather Advisory Issued for Ottawa County; Snow, High Winds, and Extreme Cold Expected

By Mary Ellen Murphy Jan 21, 2026 | 6:54 PM

Grand Haven, MI (WGHN) – The National Weather Service in Grand Rapids has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for Ottawa County through 7 p.m. Thursday.

Snow is expected, with total accumulations between 2 and 5 inches and locally higher amounts possible. Winds could gust up to 35 mph, with the heaviest snowfall expected tonight through early Thursday morning.

Road conditions are expected to become slick and hazardous, especially on bridges and overpasses. Visibility may change rapidly due to lake-effect snow, which could impact both the Thursday morning and evening commutes. Gusty winds on Thursday may also cause blowing and drifting snow, further reducing visibility.

Motorists are urged to slow down and use caution while traveling, as conditions can vary significantly over short distances during lake-effect snow events.

In addition, an Extreme Cold Watch is in effect from late Thursday night through Saturday morning for much of western and central Michigan.

Dangerously cold wind chills could drop as low as 24 below zero, posing a risk of frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. Prolonged freezing temperatures may also lead to ruptured water pipes.

Residents are advised to monitor the latest forecasts, limit time outdoors, dress warmly when outside, and check on elderly neighbors and family members. Portable heaters should be used safely, and generators or grills should never be used indoors.

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