A powerful wave of heavy showers and thunderstorms drenched Lower Michigan on Tuesday, with Battle Creek setting a new daily rainfall record of 3.73 inches at its airport. Other areas of the city saw more than 3 inches of rain, and places like Hastings, Kent City, and regions south of Battle Creek recorded over 2 inches.
Widespread Rainfall Across the Region
The National Weather Service in Grand Rapids reported that several areas, including Kalamazoo, Alma, and parts of Ottawa County, received more than 2 inches of rain. The heaviest rainfall occurred during the afternoon and evening hours, causing significant ponding on roads and slowing traffic, particularly on I-94 and M-37.
Travel and Flooding Safety Tips
Emergency management officials are advising drivers to exercise caution, especially when traveling through low-lying intersections and rural roads where water may still be pooling. Residents are urged to clear storm drains to prevent localized flooding and to ensure their basement sump pumps are working properly after the prolonged rain.
What to Expect Moving Forward
While the heavy rain is expected to taper off by late Wednesday, isolated downpours could still occur. Weather officials caution that the already saturated ground could lead to minor flooding if another weather system moves through the region later this week.
