Flooding, ice jams across West Michigan

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) - Rain and warm temperatures caused flooding and ice jams across West Michigan Wednesday.

Wednesday evening, ice jams were seen in Grand Haven, Ionia and and Mecosta Township. The northwestern Michigan jams led to flooding that caused water damage to several houses. Authorities warn of possible flooding along the Grand River in Ottawa County in coming days.

There were many reports of flooding on West Michigan roads and significant rises in area rivers. The National Weather Service warned of a flood in the White River near Whitehall.

Numerous Flash Flood Advisories, Watches and Warnings are in effect through Feb. 5.

The rain on Wednesday changed to snow in the evening as temperatures fall into the 30s and winds increase.

A Lake Effect Snow Watch is in effect. This storm will bring with it at least 6 to 10 inches of snow (and possibly more), with even higher amounts in communities west of U.S. 131 by the week's end.

The heaviest lake-effect snow will likely arrive Thursday afternoon through early Friday morning, resulting in a slippery and slow commute Thursday evening and Friday morning. High temperatures Thursday and Friday will range from 15 to 20 degrees along with a stiff west-northwest breeze, placing wind chill temperatures in the single digits most of the time.

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Storm Team 8

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Photos: W. Michigan flooding - Jan. 30