Cleveland, Ohio – Residents in Northeast Ohio should prepare for a round of strong to severe thunderstorms Wednesday evening, which could bring damaging winds and large hail. The primary threat is expected to unfold across the region, including Cleveland and surrounding communities in Cuyahoga County, before a significant shift to the hottest weather of the season arrives this weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Cleveland, there is a marginal risk (level 1 of 5) for severe thunderstorms beginning Wednesday afternoon and continuing into the night. Forecasters advise that localized heavy rainfall may accompany these storms. This weather system will move through ahead of a major pattern change that will bring much higher temperatures to the area.
This unsettled period will be short-lived, as the main concern shifts to extreme heat by the weekend. Temperatures are expected to climb into the lower to middle 90s, with heat indices approaching 100 degrees. This will mark the hottest air so far this summer, and residents are advised to prepare for the heat. Plan to stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours, and check on vulnerable neighbors.
Looking ahead, the Juneteenth holiday on Thursday appears mostly clear before the heat builds. The extended outlook signals a prolonged period of summer heat into early next week.
Here is the five-day weather outlook for Cleveland:
- Tuesday: A chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 82°F.
- Wednesday: Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 11 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 83°F.
- Thursday (Juneteenth): A chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 73°F.
- Friday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 88°F.
- Saturday: Partly sunny, with a high around 90°F.
