Cleveland, Ohio – Northeast Ohio could see a more active stretch of winter weather toward the end of January as colder air returns to the Great Lakes, setting the stage for potential lake-effect snow near Lake Erie.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, outlooks for January 17 through January 30 show increased odds of below-normal temperatures across the Great Lakes region. Precipitation signals lean above normal at times, a combination that often supports lake-effect snow development along and inland from Lake Erie.
Cleveland and surrounding communities in Cuyahoga, Lake, Geauga, and Ashtabula counties are typically most vulnerable when cold northwest or west winds cross the lake. Snow bands can linger over the same areas for hours, leading to hazardous travel on I-90, I-271, and secondary roadways with little notice.
Farther inland, lighter but persistent snow showers may still impact daily travel and commute times, especially during morning and evening hours. Even brief bursts of lake-effect snow can cause slick conditions and reduced visibility.
Residents are encouraged to stay alert for changing weather conditions late this month and to plan ahead for possible travel disruptions. Winter weather advisories or lake-effect snow warnings may be issued as the pattern becomes clearer closer to the end of January.
