‘Heavy, wet, slushy snow’ poses challenges for drivers
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Leaders are warning that drivers may experience hazardous conditions Friday because of a late-season snowfall.
In Ionia Township, deputies say a driver lost control Friday afternoon, causing a head-on crash that sent four people to the hospital.
The crash happened around 12:30 p.m. on East Bluewater Highway near Hillcrest Drive, according to the Ionia County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies say a 30-year-old Lyons man was heading east in a Nissan Rogue when the snowy conditions caused him to lose control and cross the center line. His car was hit by a westbound Chevrolet Silverado driven by a 25-year-old Ionia man, according to the sheriff’s office.
The driver and passenger of the Nissan Rogue were taken by ambulance to the hospital, as were the driver and passenger of the Chevrolet Silverado, deputies say. None of their injuries were considered life-threatening.
CREWS WORK TO KEEP UP
The National Weather Service issued a winter weather advisory for West Michigan until 12 a.m. Saturday. Areas may get 3 to 7 inches of snow, creating slippery road conditions during the morning and evening commutes.
Winter weather advisory issued for Friday snowfall
The managing director of the Kent County Road Commission, Jerry Byrne, says warmer ground temperatures have helped plow drivers keep roadways clear.
About 80 KCRC crews were out Friday, according to Byrne. Managing the snow during the evening commute has been a focus for the department — and so far, Byrne says, they’ve been able to keep up.
“Most of the roads are in really good shape. Now shady areas, underpasses, bridge decks — folks still need to be aware. It is snowing, it’s still wet, it can refreeze quickly,” he told News 8 Friday afternoon. “Right at this moment, temps are pretty good, but as the sun goes down, temps will drop and we’re going to get some refreeze.”
Byrne says you should always drive with caution, even with slushy snow.
“Spring snowfall and the fact that we hadn’t had one in 30 days — it’s almost like motorists need to start over again. It’s their first snowfall of the season,” Byrne said. “Also, this heavy, wet snow is very slushy, so you can almost hydroplane. Especially if you don’t have decent tires on your vehicles, so that heavy, wet, slushy snow can take control of your vehicle if you’re not paying attention.”
Drivers are reminded not to crowd snowplows, to maintain a safe distance and not to pass a snowplow on the right.
Those who venture out are reminded to turn on their headlights, clear all snow and ice from their vehicles and use caution. In addition, drivers should make sure to have an extra flashlight, food, and water in their car in case of an emergency.
Drivers can track the progress of the MDOT snowplows from the safety of home before hitting the road. Some plows are also equipped with cameras, allowing travelers to see the streets as they are cleared. The map is visible on the Mi Drive website.
Download the Storm Team 8 weather app
The wintry weather could impact flights at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport. Passengers can check real-time flight information online before heading to the airport.
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