Cleveland, Ohio – A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for the snowbelt regions of northeast Ohio and northwest Pennsylvania through 7 p.m. Thursday, impacting travel and the Wednesday evening commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Cleveland, falling temperatures Wednesday afternoon are expected to combine with increasing snowfall rates, leading to slick and hazardous road conditions by late day. Snow is forecast to continue at times into Thursday, particularly in lake-effect prone areas.
Forecasters say snowfall totals of 1 to 4 inches are expected across the snowbelt through Thursday evening, with the highest accumulations closer to Lake Erie. The advisory includes areas such as Cleveland’s eastern suburbs, Ashtabula County, inland Erie County in Pennsylvania, and higher terrain near the Ohio-Pennsylvania line.
The most significant impacts are expected Wednesday evening, when colder air moves in and snow intensity increases, potentially slowing traffic and extending commute times. Untreated roads and bridges may become snow-covered quickly during heavier bursts of snow.
Additional light snow is possible overnight Wednesday and intermittently Thursday, with continued slick conditions during the morning and evening travel periods. Temperatures are expected to remain cold enough for snow to accumulate, especially on secondary roads.
The National Weather Service urges drivers to allow extra time, reduce speeds, and be cautious on bridges and overpasses. Those with flexible schedules may want to adjust travel plans during peak commute hours.
This advisory may be especially relevant for commuters, students, and early-career workers traveling during the Wednesday evening rush.
