Beginning on Thursday, December 22nd, 2022, a major winter storm began impacting western lower Michigan on perhaps the busiest travel weekend of the year as people make their way to Holiday parties and other gatherings to celebrate Christmas.

These conditions would intensify Thursday evening and become life-threatening on Friday, creating impossible travel conditions for much of the day and overnight Friday (12/23/2022).

Very hazardous travel conditions continued through Saturday, the 23rd, and into Christmas Eve, 2022.

Conditions finally began to improve on Christmas Day 2022. By that time, almost 2 feet of snow had fallen in some areas, numerous 40-60mph wind gusts had been reported, utility outages were ongoing, and snow drifts reaching 4-5 feet were present across much of west-central lower Michigan.

This Winter Storm was very well forecasted.

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West Michigan Weather forecasters and our partners at the National Weather Service WFO in Grand Rapids, MI had been tracking this system for at least a week prior to its arrival.

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As the event approached, the details and severity of the event became increasingly concerning, especially because of the increased travel during this time of year.

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It became evident that the busiest travel days would also be the days that would be most impacted by life-threatening and almost impossible travel conditions.

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A Winter Storm Watch was issued well in advance, advising residents to make necessary preparations and to reconsider travel plans. Subsequent Winter Storm Warnings and Blizzard Warnings were issued as the event began to further discourage travel and protect life and property.

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This forecast was verified almost to the letter, and many lives were likely protected as a result because residents avoided travel despite the busy holiday season.