Weather in Grand Rapids

Planning your day in Grand Rapids? In this section, you will find the most up-to-date information on weather conditions, including detailed forecasts and clear charts.

The climate in Grand Rapids can be characterised as temperate continental, with four distinct seasons. The city experiences significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year, which is typical for this type of climate. Travellers should be prepared for both warm summer days and cool, sometimes freezing, winter periods.

Summer in Grand Rapids is generally warm and pleasant, with average temperatures in July and August around 22-23°C. This is the ideal time for walks and outdoor activities. Winters, conversely, are cold, with average temperatures in January and February below zero (around -2°C to -3°C) and frequent snowfall. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with moderate temperatures, but they can be quite changeable.

Precipitation in Grand Rapids is distributed relatively evenly throughout the year, without a distinct rainy season. The monthly amount of precipitation is low, usually within the range of 2-4 mm, however, the number of days with precipitation ranges from 9 to 13 per month, indicating frequent but not overly intense precipitation. This means that a light jacket or umbrella might come in handy at any time of the year.

The annual temperature progression in Grand Rapids demonstrates a clear change of seasons and significant fluctuations. The hottest month is typically July, when the average temperature is 23.0°C, and daily highs regularly reach 27.6°C. August is also very warm, with an average temperature of 22.1°C and maximum values up to 26.6°C. In contrast, the coldest months are January and February. In January, the average temperature drops to -2.9°C (with minimum night-time temperatures down to -5.9°C), and in February, the average temperature is -2.3°C (minimums down to -6.3°C), indicating persistent frosty conditions.

The summer months in Grand Rapids, covering June, July, and August, are characterised by pleasantly warm, and at times hot, weather. Average daytime temperatures during this period range from 25.8°C in June to a peak of 27.6°C in July. Nights bring noticeable relief from the daytime heat, with temperatures dropping on average to 16.1°C in June and 18.4°C in July. This difference between day and night temperatures, amounting to approximately 9-10°C, creates comfortable conditions for evening relaxation.

The winter period in Grand Rapids, from December to February, is distinguished by cold weather. In January, the frostiest month, the average maximum daytime temperature barely reaches 0°C, while night-time temperatures hold steady around -5.9°C. A similar pattern is observed in December and February: average daily highs range from 1.7°C to 3.2°C, while night-time lows drop to -2.3°C and -6.3°C respectively. Daily temperature fluctuations in winter are somewhat smaller than in summer, averaging 5-8°C, but the overall temperature picture remains cold, with frequent frosts.

In Grand Rapids, the nature of precipitation changes noticeably depending on the time of year. In winter, especially from December to February, when temperatures often drop below zero (for example, the average January temperature is -2.9°C), precipitation usually falls as snow. In spring and autumn, it is predominantly rain, while summer brings refreshing, but usually not too heavy, showers. In transitional months, such as March (with an average temperature of +3.2°C) or November (+4.6°C), both rain and wet snow are possible.

Regarding quantitative indicators, peak precipitation occurs in May and October, when about 4 mm falls. These same months, along with January and April, also lead in frequency – approximately 13 days with precipitation in each. The lowest amount of precipitation (2 mm) is characteristic of January, February, March, November, and December. However, even in these "driest" months by volume, the frequency of precipitation remains significant: for example, February counts 10 days with precipitation, and December has 12 days.

Overall, despite the moderate total amount of monthly precipitation (from 2 to 4 mm), its regularity is a key feature of the weather in Grand Rapids. Practically every month has from 9 (in November) to 13 days with some form of precipitation. This means that a light waterproof jacket or an umbrella will be a useful addition to your luggage regardless of the travel season, be it a snowy January or a rainy May.

When planning a trip to Grand Rapids, it is important to consider its changeable weather and distinct seasonal shifts. The key to a comfortable journey is layering your clothing, as the temperature can change noticeably even within a single day. Regardless of the time of year, be sure to bring comfortable shoes for walking, as there is plenty to see in the city. Given that precipitation, while not abundant, is frequent (from 9 to 13 days with precipitation per month), a light waterproof jacket or a compact umbrella will become your faithful companions.

If your visit to Grand Rapids falls during the summer (June-August), when average temperatures hover around 21-23°C, pack light clothing: t-shirts, shorts, sundresses. Don't forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. However, even in summer, evenings can be cool, so a light cardigan or windbreaker will come in handy. Winter (December-February) here is quite harsh, with average temperatures around -2°C...-3°C and frequent snowfalls. You will need a warm winter jacket, a hat, a scarf, gloves, and waterproof warm shoes. Thermal underwear will also be useful if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors.

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) in Grand Rapids are transitional seasons with a wide temperature range. In early spring and late autumn, it is still quite cold (average temperature in March is around +3°C, in November around +4.6°C), so warm items, including a jacket, sweater, and hat, are mandatory. By May and in September, the weather becomes significantly warmer (average temperature in May is +15.8°C, in September +19°C), but the principle of layering remains relevant. A mid-season jacket capable of protecting against rain and wind will be very appropriate. Before the trip itself, it is always useful to check the current weather forecast to adjust your wardrobe.