Cleveland, OH / Pittsburgh, PA — A developing lake-effect snow event is expected to impact eastern Ohio and western Pennsylvania from Sunday afternoon through Monday, bringing a wide range of snowfall totals depending on the exact placement of the dominant snow band. Cold northwest flow over Lakes Erie and Ontario will set up narrow but intense corridors of snowfall that could produce hazardous travel, particularly north of Interstate 80.
Forecasters at the National Weather Service in Cleveland report that snowfall of 3 to 6 inches is likely in the higher terrain of eastern Erie and Crawford Counties in Pennsylvania by early Monday morning. Additional light accumulations of 1 to 2 inches may fall Monday as lingering bands redevelop. Locally heavier totals are possible where the primary band sets up for several hours.
Meanwhile, the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh warns that areas north of I-80 could see significantly higher totals, especially within the most persistent part of the lake-effect band. Snow amounts of up to 12 inches are possible where the band remains stationary overnight into Monday morning. However, a slight shift of only a few miles could mean the difference between a foot of snow, a few inches, or even just flurries. This sharp gradient is typical with lake-effect events but adds uncertainty for local communities.
The heaviest snowfall is expected after sunset Sunday through Monday morning, aligning with peak commuter hours in some areas. Reduced visibility, snow-covered secondary roads, and slick travel conditions are likely under the core of the band.
Travelers throughout eastern Ohio and western Pennsylvania—especially those with plans north of I-80—should closely monitor forecast updates. Even short-distance travel could encounter rapidly changing weather conditions, including near whiteouts at times. Forecasters emphasize that conditions may shift quickly as the lake-effect band reorganizes through Monday.
