CLEVELAND, OH — The first true winter punch of the season is hitting northeast Ohio this morning, with heavy lake effect snow expected to continue through tonight. The National Weather Service in Cleveland warns that travel could become treacherous across the snowbelt region, especially along and north of Interstate 90 from Cleveland to Erie, Pennsylvania.
Forecasters say snowfall rates of 1 inch per hour or more are possible within stronger lake bands. By tonight, totals could reach 4 to 6 inches, with locally higher amounts near Ashtabula, Chardon, and Mentor. Winds gusting to 30 mph will create blowing and drifting snow, sharply reducing visibility for drivers.
The snow bands are expected to shift eastward through the afternoon, spreading from Cuyahoga and Lake Counties into Geauga, Ashtabula, and Erie Counties by evening. Travel along I-90, Route 2, and the Ohio Turnpike will likely deteriorate as conditions vary mile by mile — one town may see light flakes while another faces near-whiteout conditions.
Drivers are urged to avoid unnecessary travel or use extreme caution if heading out today. Even short commutes could take significantly longer as roads ice over and plows struggle to keep up with fast accumulation rates.
