West Michigan Is Under An Ice Storm Warning: Here’s What You Need To Prepare

We’re looking at some nasty weather coming our way later this morning in West Michigan, and while we love to be tough and pretend like the snow is no big deal, ice is an entirely different beast.

So far, National Weather Service meteorologists have forecasted a winter storm warning will be in effect for Ottawa, Kent, Ionia, Muskegon, Montcalm and Gratiot Counties from 10 am on Wednesday, until 4 am Thursday. Forecasts are predicting 1 to 3 inches of sleet or snow, and up to 0.40 inches of ice accumulation.

Meanwhile, An ice storm warning will be in effect for Allegan, Barry, Eaton, Van Buren, Kalamazoo and Calhoun counties from 10 a.m. Wednesday until 4 a.m. Thursday for up to half an inch of ice accumulation.

What can I do to be prepared for a potentially dangerous ice storm?

This weeks weather is inevitable, but there are a few things you can do to make sure you're ready before this weather hits West Michigan.

Make sure your devices are charged. If you have generators or portable batteries, charge those too.

Make sure your car has gas and a blanket in case you do have to travel, or get stuck while traveling.

If you have a large container to put water in, do so. If the power goes out, your pipes could freeze and make it difficult to get water until it warms up.

Speaking of the power going out- Gather those candles and flash lights. You don't want to get stuck in the dark if you power goes out after dark.

Do NOT heat your home with your gas oven if the power goes out. It's dangerous, and you could hurt yourself. However, you may be able to use the burners to cook.

And if your car becomes an ice cube, no matter how tempting it is: don’t dump hot water on it. That’s a great recipe to break your windshield. You can put a little on your handle or locks to get into your car, but never near your auto glass.

Good luck going into this storm, and be safe. Also, a friendly reminder to check in with your friends, family, neighbors and other loved ones to make sure they're also prepared for this week's potentially dangerous weather.