CLEVELAND — Winter is making a sharp return across northern Ohio as snow and dangerous Arctic cold move into the region today and continue through Saturday, according to the National Weather Service in Cleveland.
A fast-moving winter system will bring widespread snowfall totals of 2 to 5 inches, with the highest accumulations expected along and north of Interstate 90, including the Cleveland metro, Lorain County, and inland portions of northeast Ohio. Snow will overspread the region this morning and continue into the evening, with snow squalls possible as an Arctic cold front sweeps through.
Road conditions are expected to deteriorate quickly, especially during the afternoon and evening commute. Travel along I-90, I-77, I-71, and I-480 may become hazardous due to rapidly changing visibility, snow-covered pavement, and gusty winds producing blowing and drifting snow.
Behind the front, temperatures will plummet sharply tonight, and bitterly cold air will settle in through Saturday morning. Wind chills are forecast to fall into the -15° to -30° range, cold enough to cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 to 30 minutes. The coldest wind chills are expected early Saturday, particularly in open and elevated areas.
Residents are urged to limit outdoor exposure, dress in multiple layers, and ensure pets have adequate shelter from the cold. Those traveling should carry winter emergency supplies and allow extra time to reach destinations.
While a brief moderation in temperatures is expected early next week, forecasters stress that winter is far from over. Stay alert for updated advisories and warnings, and monitor local forecasts closely as conditions evolve.
This combination of accumulating snow, dangerous wind chills, and rapidly changing travel conditions makes this a high-impact winter weather event for northern Ohio.
