Cleveland, Ohio – Heavy rain and thunderstorms are drenching much of northeast Ohio today, raising the risk of flash flooding across urban areas and low-lying roads.
According to the National Weather Service Cleveland, there’s a 50% to 80% chance that communities from Toledo to Pittsburgh—including Cleveland, Akron, and Youngstown—will receive 2 inches or more of rain by 6 a.m. Thursday. Isolated stronger storms may bring damaging winds and enhance flood risk.
Cleveland, Akron, and surrounding areas lie within a moderate to high rainfall zone, with widespread totals expected between 2 and 4 inches. Localized downpours could lead to street flooding, particularly where storm drains are clogged or in flood-prone neighborhoods. The excessive rainfall outlook places much of northeast Ohio under a Level 2 (Slight) to Level 3 (Moderate) risk category today.
Drivers should avoid flooded roads and expect reduced visibility during peak rainfall hours this afternoon and evening. Residents are urged to clear drains, secure outdoor items, and have a plan in case of power outages or emergency alerts.
Rain chances taper off late tonight, but additional advisories may be issued if storms regenerate overnight.
