If you’re in Grand Rapids or anywhere nearby, tonight’s weather could get rough. A strong storm system is moving in, bringing damaging winds, heavy rain, hail, and even the risk of tornadoes between 8 PM and 3 AM.
The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Advisory until 8 PM, with gusts already reaching 50-55 mph—and that’s before the main storms even arrive. Once the system moves in, winds could get even stronger, and there’s a real chance for tornadoes and large hail.
Since this will be an overnight storm, many people might be asleep when the worst of it hits. The time to prepare is right now.
What’s Coming?
Tornado Risk – Tornadoes aren’t a certainty, but the atmosphere is set up for them. If a tornado warning is issued, don’t wait—get to your safe place immediately.
Damaging Winds (Up to 70 mph) – Strong winds could knock down trees, cut power, and even cause structural damage. Even outside of thunderstorms, gusty conditions will continue into the night.
Hail (Possibly Golf Ball-Sized) – Hail this size can crack windshields, dent cars, and damage homes. If you have a garage, move your car inside now.
Heavy Rain & Flash Flooding – Some areas could see quick bursts of heavy rain, which may cause localized flooding. If you’re out late, never try to drive through standing water—it only takes a few inches to sweep a car away.
When Will the Worst Hit?
- 8 PM – 10 PM: The first storms will develop, bringing gusty winds and heavy rain.
- 10 PM – 1 AM: This is the most dangerous period. Expect the strongest storms, with tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail possible.
- 1 AM – 3 AM: The system will begin to weaken and move out, but wind gusts may still be strong into the early morning.
How to Stay Safe Tonight
✔ Make Sure You Can Get Weather Alerts – If a storm hits while you’re asleep, you need a way to wake up. Keep your phone alerts ON, and have a weather radio as backup in case the power goes out.
✔ Secure Outdoor Items – Patio furniture, trash cans, and loose decorations can become flying debris. Bring them inside or tie them down before winds get stronger.
✔ Charge Your Devices – There’s a good chance of power outages, so charge your phone, flashlight, and backup battery packs now.
✔ Know Where You’ll Go If a Tornado Warning is Issued – If a warning is issued, head to the lowest level of your home, away from windows. A basement, bathroom, or closet is safest. If you live in a mobile home, find a sturdier shelter ahead of time.
✔ Stay Off the Roads If Possible – If you’re out and storms hit, pull over in a safe spot and wait it out. Never drive through floodwaters—you don’t know how deep they are.
What to Expect Tomorrow Morning
- Storms will weaken after 3 AM, but strong winds may continue into the morning.
- There may be power outages, fallen trees, and debris in some areas.
- If you see storm damage, report it to local officials and check on neighbors who may need help.
Get Ready Now
This storm will hit while most people are sleeping—don’t wait until it’s too late to prepare.
High winds, hail, and possible tornadoes are coming—know where you’ll go if conditions get worse.
Charge your phone, secure loose items, and have a flashlight ready in case the power goes out.
Storms like this can turn dangerous fast. Taking a few simple precautions now could make all the difference.
