Cleveland, Ohio – Drivers across Northeast Ohio could face rapidly changing road conditions between 9 p.m. Thursday and 4 a.m. Friday as isolated severe thunderstorms threaten major corridors including I-90, I-71 and I-77 during the overnight hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Cleveland, multiple rounds of rain are expected Thursday, with the strongest storms most likely during the late evening and overnight window. The agency has placed much of northern and eastern Ohio under a Level 1 severe risk, meaning isolated storms could produce damaging wind gusts and large hail.
The highest threat zone includes Cuyahoga, Lake, Geauga, Summit, Portage and Trumbull counties. Storms moving across the Cleveland metro could create brief wind gusts near 60 mph, strong enough to knock down tree limbs and cause isolated power outages. Drivers along the Ohio Turnpike, I-480 and Route 2 should prepare for sudden downpours that may reduce visibility below one mile at times.
Farther south toward Akron and Canton, heavy rain could pond on roadways, especially along low-lying stretches of I-76 and U.S. Route 30. Evening commuters and overnight freight traffic should allow extra travel time and avoid flooded underpasses.
Residents are urged to secure outdoor furniture, charge mobile devices and enable wireless emergency alerts before 9 p.m. If thunder roars, head indoors immediately and avoid travel during peak storm intensity.
Storm activity is expected to taper after 4 a.m., but additional showers may linger into Friday morning. Additional advisories could be issued if storms strengthen later Thursday.
