Cleveland, OH – Northeast Ohio is under a lake effect snow warning as a major winter storm continues to batter the region. Heavy snow, gusting winds, and near-zero visibility are expected to make travel dangerous through early Friday morning.
The National Weather Service reports snowfall accumulations between 5 and 10 inches in Cleveland and surrounding areas, with locally higher totals in eastern Cuyahoga, Lake, and Geauga counties. Winds are expected to gust as high as 55 mph along the lakeshore, creating blowing snow and whiteout conditions. Travel on I-90 and other key routes is expected to be particularly treacherous.
Residents are advised to avoid non-essential travel and prepare for potential power outages due to falling tree branches. The Ohio Department of Transportation has urged drivers to stay off the roads if possible, noting that rapid snow accumulation and freezing conditions could overwhelm plowing efforts.
While conditions are expected to improve by Friday afternoon, temperatures will remain cold, with highs only in the low 30s. Officials remind residents to check on elderly neighbors and take precautions to avoid hypothermia when outdoors.
