Cleveland, Ohio – Localized flash flooding and heavy downpours are possible across Northeast Ohio this afternoon as thunderstorms intensify along a cold front sweeping through the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Cleveland, thunderstorms will develop by early afternoon and could produce high rainfall rates—particularly in areas east of I-71. Counties including Cuyahoga, Summit, Ashtabula, Trumbull, and Mahoning are at heightened risk for flash flooding, with rainfall chances exceeding 80% in many locations. Some isolated severe storms could also bring damaging winds.
In Cleveland, Akron, and Youngstown, rainfall probabilities are above 85%, with the heaviest downpours expected between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Erie and Meadville, Pennsylvania, are also under the threat zone, with the NWS highlighting a “greatest risk of heavy rain” along the Ohio-Pennsylvania border.
Drivers should avoid flooded roadways and monitor local alerts. Residents are urged to clear drains and secure outdoor items, as localized flooding could develop quickly in poor drainage areas.
Storms are expected to taper overnight, but additional weather alerts may be issued if cells redevelop or training patterns occur.
