Snowflakes swirl off Lake Erie this morning, catching headlights and covering side streets across Cleveland in a slushy white sheen. The first true taste of winter is here for northeast Ohio — and conditions are expected to worsen midweek as strong winds and Arctic air sweep in from the northwest.
According to the National Weather Service in Cleveland, accumulating lake-effect snow is likely from late Tuesday into Wednesday morning, especially across Cuyahoga, Geauga, and Lake counties. Some higher terrain areas east of the city could pick up 2–4 inches, with locally higher amounts under persistent bands. Blowing snow and gusts up to 40 mph will reduce visibility on highways including I-90 and I-271, making for challenging commutes through Wednesday.
By Thursday, temperatures will drop sharply, with highs near 31°F and brisk northwest winds. The colder air will set the stage for additional snow chances Friday into Saturday as another weak system slides through the Great Lakes.
The bigger story, however, is the plunge in temperature. Highs this weekend may struggle to reach 20°F, while nighttime lows fall into the single digits. Wind chills could drop below zero, especially across the snowbelt and open rural areas.
Meteorologists say this early-season pattern — with clippers and lake-effect bursts every few days — is likely to continue through December 17. Residents should plan for slick travel, limited visibility, and biting wind chills during early morning hours.
Five-Day Outlook for Cleveland, OH
- Wednesday: Snow, windy, high 41°F → low 25°F.
- Thursday: Chance of snow, high 31°F, low 22°F.
- Friday: Snow possible, high 32°F, low 21°F.
- Saturday: Snow likely, high 28°F, low 8°F.
- Sunday: Chance of snow, high 23°F, low 14°F.
