Heavy Rain Transitions to Lake-Effect Snow Tonight
RIGHT NOW FROM NEWS 5: Here's the full Power of 5 Weather Forecast for Cleveland, Akron, and Northeast Ohio.
Current Conditions
This morning in Cleveland is cold and damp, with heavy rain and temperatures near 40°F.
Weather Transition This Evening
As temperatures drop into the 30s by afternoon and near freezing after sunset, rain will shift to a wintry mix and then to snow by midnight.
Snowfall Details
- Initial snow accumulations will be light due to warm, wet ground that hinders sticking unless snowfall rates reach 1-2 inches per hour.
- The snow will be wet and slushy, which could cause fallen trees or branches, especially near the lakeshore where many trees still retain leaves.
- Heavy, wet snow combined with gusty winds over 30 mph may lead to tree damage.
- Snow first accumulates on elevated, grassy surfaces, followed by slushy conditions on roads, with bridges and overpasses impacted earlier.
Lake-Effect Snow Bands
Shifting northerly winds could move lake-effect snow bands around the area.
There is a west side surprise element with this storm, as a north wind is likely to push a band from Lake Huron down to areas like Sandusky and as far south as Mansfield later this evening.
Stay alert as lake-effect snow intensifies overnight, especially near lakeshore locations.
Author's summary: A wintry shift tonight brings wet, heavy snow with gusty winds, risking fallen branches and tree damage, especially near Northeast Ohio's lakeshores.