Ohio wakes to sharp cold and clear skies along Lake Erie. The air bites. Exhaust lingers at stoplights. That calm winter morning will give way to a fast-moving December weather shift, bringing wind, rain, and snow chances to Cleveland by Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures rebound Wednesday as clouds increase. Highs reach near 40 degrees, easing the early cold snap. Winds strengthen through the day, signaling a changing pattern across Northeast Ohio.
Conditions turn active Thursday. Rain develops by midday, becoming steadier through the afternoon. Gusty southwest winds may exceed 30 mph, especially near the lakeshore. Wet pavement and reduced visibility could slow travel on I-90, I-71, and the Shoreway during peak hours.
Colder air pushes in Thursday evening. Rain may mix with snow, then briefly change over as temperatures fall into the mid-20s. While accumulation looks light, any moisture left behind could freeze quickly. This creates a growing concern for black ice on bridges, ramps, and untreated side streets.
Drivers should prepare now. Slow down after sunset, allow extra stopping distance, and stay alert for sudden slick spots. Lake-effect flurries remain possible Friday as winds shift, adding to visibility concerns.
Friday stays cold and breezy, with highs near 30. Snow chances linger but remain scattered. The weekend trends quieter, with clouds Saturday and a modest rebound into the low 40s. Nights stay cold, keeping winter firmly in place as Christmas travel approaches.
Meteorologists say this pattern reflects a classic early-winter transition. Warm air exits fast, and cold air quickly locks back in.
5-Day Outlook for Cleveland
- Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, high near 40
- Thursday: Rain likely, turning wintry late, high near 49
- Friday: Chance of snow, windy, high near 30
- Saturday: Mostly cloudy, high near 42
- Sunday: Partly sunny, high near 36
