GRAND RAPIDS, Mich — Winter has been slow to arrive this month, but those holding onto dreams of a snowy Christmas may have their wish granted.
A strong area of low pressure is poised to pass through the Great Lakes, forcing warm air into West Michigan on Wednesday before a surge of Arctic air later that night.
Temperatures climb near 50 degrees by Wednesday evening only to plummet to the mid 20s shortly before sunrise Christmas Eve.
When a frigid airmass settles over the relatively warmer waters of Lake Michigan, lake-effect snow showers form. These snow showers will ramp up in intensity by Thursday night.
Snow accumulations will vary from the lakeshore to inland areas. The highest totals will be close to the lakeshore, ranging from 3-6". Those east of US-131 will pick up 1-2" of snow by Friday evening.
A winter weather advisory will go into effect Thursday morning. Inland counties keep the advisory until Thursday night. Lakeshore counties will be under the advisory until Friday evening.
Travel will be slow-going while lake-effect snow showers are ongoing. Allow extra time on the roads if you travel for the holiday.
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