Ohio – Warm sunshine is giving way to an increasingly unstable atmosphere across northern Ohio, and conditions could change quickly before the day is over. While much of the morning remains quiet, forecasters are tracking thunderstorms capable of producing damaging wind gusts, large hail and pockets of heavy rain as the afternoon transitions into evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Cleveland, much of northern Ohio, the Lake Erie shoreline and nearby northwest Pennsylvania are under a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) for severe thunderstorms today and tonight. The primary hazards are damaging wind gusts and large hail, while locally heavy rainfall could also create brief travel problems where stronger storms develop.
Cleveland is expected to climb to 89 degrees this afternoon with only a 20% chance of storms before midday, but thunderstorm coverage increases significantly this evening and tonight. The official outlook indicates showers and thunderstorms are likely after late evening, with heavy rainfall possible and rainfall totals locally exceeding one inch in stronger storms. Motorists on Interstates 90, 71, 77 and the Ohio Turnpike (I-80) should stay alert for rapidly changing visibility, ponding water and strong wind gusts during the evening commute.
While tornadoes are not the primary concern today, forecasters continue monitoring storm development across the Great Lakes. Any stronger thunderstorm could briefly produce hail and wind strong enough to down tree limbs or cause isolated power outages.
The weather pattern turns noticeably cooler after the front moves through. Tuesday remains unsettled with additional showers and thunderstorms before temperatures fall into the upper 70s. By Wednesday, sunshine returns with highs only in the mid-70s, offering a refreshing break from the recent summer warmth.
Keep mobile devices charged, secure loose outdoor furniture before storms develop, and have multiple ways to receive weather warnings if you have afternoon or evening plans.
Long-range outlooks continue to favor above-normal temperatures returning during the 6-to-10-day period, suggesting the cooler midweek weather will likely be temporary.
Five-Day Forecast for Cleveland, Ohio
- Today: High 89°. Slight chance of storms early, then increasing thunderstorm chances late. Heavy rain possible tonight.
- Tuesday: High 78°. Showers and thunderstorms likely, becoming less widespread later in the day.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny with a high near 76°.
- Thursday: Sunny with a high near 80°.
- Friday: Mostly sunny with a high near 82°.
