Winter Storm Watch Issued

The National Weather Service in Grand Rapids has issued a winter storm watch that is in effect from Monday afternoon through Tuesday morning.

Freezing rain will develop Monday and continue through Monday evening. The potential exists for a quarter to a half-inch of ice accumulation.

Strong winds are also expected with gusts up to 40-50 MPH. The combination of ice and strong winds may lead to widespread power outages. Driving on roads and walking on sidewalks may become very hazardous, leading to a multitude of accidents.

The affected areas include Allegan, Barry, Calhoun, Clare, Clinton, Eaton, Gratiot, Ingham, Ionia, Isabella, Jackson, Kalamazoo, Kent, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Montcalm, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, Osceola, Ottawa and Van Buren counties.