Ohio – Snowflakes swirl across dim morning streets as 2026 begins with winter firmly in control across northeast Ohio. Wind pushes light lake-effect snow inland, and tires hiss on cold pavement as early New Year’s Day travel turns cautious around Cleveland.
According to the National Weather Service in Cleveland, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect for Cuyahoga County through this morning. Additional lake-effect snow accumulations up to one inch are possible, with wind gusts reaching 35 mph. These conditions may reduce visibility and create slippery road surfaces during the morning commute.
Temperatures sit in the teens, with wind chills near or just above zero at times. Bridges, overpasses, and untreated side streets become slick quickly. Drivers along I-90, I-71, and I-77 should slow down and increase following distance as bursts of snow move through.
Snow chances taper later today, though clouds linger. Highs struggle to reach the mid-20s, keeping roads cold enough for lingering icy patches. Winds ease slightly by afternoon, but the cold remains sharp heading into tonight.
Friday stays mostly cloudy with highs near the upper 20s. A few flurries may persist early, though widespread snow is not expected. Travel conditions gradually improve, but refreezing remains a concern each evening as temperatures drop back into the teens.
The first weekend of 2026 stays cold and mostly quiet. Saturday tops out near 29 under cloudy skies. Sunday remains similar, with highs in the upper 20s and another chance of light snow returning by Sunday night.
Plan extra time for travel this morning, bundle up against biting wind, and stay alert for changing road conditions. More advisories could follow if lake-effect bands intensify. Are you seeing snow or slick roads where you are right now?
Five Day Outlook for Cleveland, Ohio
New Year’s Day: Snow likely early, high near 24
Friday: Mostly cloudy, high near 27
Saturday: Mostly cloudy, high near 29
Sunday: Mostly cloudy, high near 28
Monday: Partly cloudy, high near 35
