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Taking a look at heat waves from previous years, how does the current one compare?

How does the current heat wave compare to previous years?

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Grand Rapids reached its first 90° of the season on Monday with more 90°+ days likely in the days ahead. Nearly all of West Michigan experienced hot weather, setting records as well.

First 90° day benchmarks

The average date of the first 90° is June 18, so Grand Rapids achieved that one day earlier.  Last year, the first 90° day occurred on May 30. The earliest 90° day was recorded on April 29, 1899 while no 90° days were observed in 1951 and 2014.

Credit: 13 On Your Side Weather
First 90° Day Benchmarks - Grand Rapids

Earliest 90° heat wave

The earliest 90° heat wave occurred last year, spanning five consecutive days for Grand Rapids, Muskegon and Kalamazoo starting on May 30 and lasting through June 3, 2023. Holland totaled four days in a row starting on May 31, 2023.

Credit: 13 On Your Side Weather
Earliest 90° Heat Wave - Grand Rapids

Observed vs. record high temperatures - June 17

Record high temperatures were set in Muskegon with 93°, breaking the previous record of 92° set in 1905 and 1987. Holland also set a record high with 94°, breaking the old record of 93° set in 1957, 1994 and 2006.

Credit: 13 On Your Side Weather
Record High Temperatures - June 17, 2024

Forecast vs. record high temperatures - June 18

Temperatures will likely reach 90°+ Tuesday with Muskegon possibly setting an additional record high, while other locations may fall just short.

Credit: 13 On Your Side Weather
Forecast vs. Record High Temperatures - June 18

Chief Meteorologist George Lessens

George is a graduate of Penn State University working for 13 On Your Side for nearly 44 years. He is a Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM), a thirteen-time MAB® Weathercast Award Winner, four-time EMMY® Award Winner, NATAS® Silver Circle Award Winner, Weather-Ready Nation® Ambassador, and the AMS Charles Mitchell Award for lifetime service.

Contact me at: GeorgeLessens@13OnYourSide.com

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