Cleveland, Ohio — Much colder air and strong west winds are sweeping into northern Ohio on Friday, bringing gusts up to 45 mph, plunging temperatures, and lake-effect snow across the snowbelt.
According to the National Weather Service in Cleveland, temperatures dropped sharply early Friday and are not expected to recover, with daytime readings falling into the 20s. West winds gusting between 35 and 45 mph will peak from late morning through the afternoon, producing wind chills between 0 and 10 degrees, especially near Lake Erie.
Lake-effect snow is expected to intensify through the day and into Friday evening, mainly affecting northeast Ohio and northwest Pennsylvania. Forecasters say parts of the primary snowbelt could receive 3 to 6 inches of snow by early Saturday, with the heaviest totals expected south of Interstate 90 and east of Interstate 79. Snowfall rates may reach up to one inch per hour at times.
Outside the snowbelt, lighter snow accumulations of 1 to 3 inches are possible, though untreated wet surfaces elsewhere could freeze quickly due to rapidly falling temperatures. This may lead to slick spots on bridges, overpasses, and secondary roads during the Friday morning commute.
A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect for portions of Erie County, Pennsylvania, through 1 a.m. Saturday. Visibility reductions and difficult travel are possible during periods of heavier lake-effect snow.
Officials urge drivers to reduce speed, allow extra stopping distance, and remain alert for sudden changes in road conditions. High-profile vehicles may also be affected by strong crosswinds, particularly along open highways.
Commuters, students, and delivery drivers traveling Friday afternoon and evening are expected to face the most hazardous conditions as winds and snow peak.
