KENT COUNTY, Mich. — Winter is officially back in West Michigan! A lake-effect snow system dropped a widespread four to six inches of snow in Kent County overnight—and it isn't over yet.
Early Thursday morning, many roads were covered in snow and visibility was low due to gusty winds and blowing snow. While some roads have cleared up throughout the morning, drivers should expect a tricky morning commute.
The snow is expected to taper off throughout Thursday, but Kent County could see an additional two inches.
Overnight, crews with the Kent County Road Commission focused on clearing state and multi-lane county primary roads. Plows had to revisit areas as the snow continued to accumulate.
Morning crews are working on high-volume roads and will likely begin on county local roads after the morning rush.
Frigid temperatures are also impacting how crews clear the roads as salt becomes less effective as it gets colder.
Salt causes a chemical change to the composition of water, lowering its freezing point and making it more difficult to cause ice on the roads. But once temperatures fall below the 15-degree mark, this process takes longer and isn't as effective as controlling snow and ice.
Because of this, crews are focusing on removing the snow and spreading a combination of salt and sand.
The Kent County Road Commission wants drivers to remember these tips before hitting the road:
- Slow and steady wins the race; maintain reduced speeds
- Minimize in-car distractions
- Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles
- Stay at least 200 feet behind snowplows
- Keep your lights on (even during the day with inclement weather conditions)