Winter Shock Settles In by the End of the Weekend with Snow and Arctic Cold
Cold weather is taking over Northeast Ohio, with a Winter Storm Watch now in effect for several counties. Residents of Cleveland, Akron, and nearby areas should prepare for a sharp drop in temperatures and the season’s first notable snowfall.
Forecast Overview
Sunday morning will start off chilly, with temperatures in the lower to mid-40s. Rain will dominate early on, but colder air will move in during the afternoon, causing a transition from rain to a mix and eventually to snow by evening.
Temperature Drop and Snow Transition
As afternoon temperatures fall into the 30s and approach freezing after sunset, the shift to snow will begin. Initially, accumulations will be light since the ground remains relatively warm. Snow may start to stick only when rates become heavy enough.
Snow Type and Potential Impacts
The snow will be wet and slushy, heavy enough to cause stress on trees that still have leaves—particularly near the lakeshore. Winds with gusts above 30 miles per hour may lead to scattered tree damage and possible downed branches.
Road Conditions and Travel Concerns
Snow will first accumulate on grassy and elevated surfaces, such as bridges and overpasses, before building up on major roads. Drivers should watch for slippery conditions into Sunday night.
Lake-Effect Snow Watch
As winds turn northerly, one or two lake-effect snow squalls may develop. The exact timing will determine how much snow ultimately accumulates across the region.
“Winter Storm Watch Sunday morning will be chilly, with temperatures in the low to mid-40s through midday. Rain during the morning will begin to change as colder air filters in during the mid to late afternoon.”
Author’s summary: A strong Arctic front brings Cleveland and surrounding areas their first slushy snowfall, with wind gusts and brief lake-effect squalls expected by Sunday night.