CLEVELAND, Ohio – Skies across Ohio may light up tonight as the Northern Lights drift unusually far south, coinciding with the start of meteorological fall. Residents from Cleveland to Toledo should look north after dusk for a chance at rare aurora activity, but prepare for changing skies midweek.
According to NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, a coronal mass ejection from the sun is expected to trigger moderate to strong geomagnetic storm conditions through Tuesday morning. Clear skies tonight will boost the odds of viewing the aurora along Lake Erie, especially in less light-polluted areas east of Cleveland.
Travelers along I-90 near the city should stay alert for distracted drivers who may suddenly slow or pull over to catch the skies. Emergency officials advise motorists to use designated pull-offs rather than stopping along busy highways.
By Wednesday, the atmosphere shifts from spectacle to storms. The National Weather Service in Cleveland notes a 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms late Wednesday night, with rain increasing to 90% Thursday. Localized downpours could slow morning commutes and spark minor flooding in low-lying areas.
Daytime highs climb into the upper 70s and low 80s through midweek before dropping into the 60s by Thursday. Overnight lows cool into the 50s, keeping evenings brisk as fall weather takes hold.
Ohioans should enjoy tonight’s potential aurora while skies stay clear, then prepare for a wet stretch mid-to-late week. Further advisories may follow if storms intensify.
Five-Day Forecast for Cleveland, Ohio
- Tuesday: Sunny, high 78. Low 60.
- Wednesday: Sunny early, high 80. Storms possible overnight. Low 60.
- Thursday: Showers likely, high 68. Low 53.
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high 70. Low 56.
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high 68. Low 53.
