CLEVELAND, Ohio – A strong lake effect rain band will push south toward the Lake Erie shoreline later Wednesday, delivering periods of heavy rain and gusty winds through Thursday morning. Forecasters warn that the most persistent rain could drop 2 to 4 inches along the Lake, Ashtabula, and Erie County (PA) shoreline, leading to localized flooding in poor drainage areas.
According to the National Weather Service Cleveland office, the single lake effect rain band will organize this afternoon as colder air flows over the warmer lake waters. The most intense downpours are expected tonight into early Thursday, especially from Mentor to Erie, Pennsylvania, where rainfall rates may briefly exceed one inch per hour. Winds from the southwest will gust 35 to 40 mph at times, reducing visibility for evening commuters along I-90 and near the lakeshore.
Residents are urged to inspect gutters and storm drains to prevent water backups and street flooding. Clearing leaves and debris ahead of the rain can minimize drainage issues. Drivers should also watch for ponding on roadways during heavier bursts of rain, especially overnight.
Conditions will gradually improve by Friday morning as the lake effect band weakens and shifts eastward. Cooler, breezy fall weather will persist into the weekend, with daytime highs staying in the 50s.
