Cleveland, Ohio – A fast-moving and dangerous snow squall is sweeping across the Cleveland metro right now, creating near-zero visibility and rapidly deteriorating road conditions during the late-afternoon commute.
A Snow Squall Warning is in effect until 4:30 p.m. as an intense band of heavy snow races east at nearly 50 mph. At mid-afternoon, the squall stretched from Perry to Lakewood and continued pushing through Lake, Geauga, northeastern Cuyahoga, and southwestern Ashtabula counties. According to the National Weather Service in Cleveland, wind gusts over 35 mph are producing blowing snow capable of reducing visibility to near zero within minutes.
This squall is directly impacting major roadways including I-90, I-480, I-271, and U.S. Route 422. Drivers in Cleveland, Euclid, Mentor, Willoughby, Painesville, Solon, Chardon, Twinsburg, and surrounding communities may suddenly encounter whiteout conditions with little warning. According to the National Weather Service, snow squalls are especially dangerous because conditions can go from clear to nearly impossible in seconds.
Travel may become difficult to potentially dangerous almost immediately as the squall passes. Sudden braking and chain-reaction crashes are common during these events. Officials urge drivers to slow down immediately, turn on headlights, and increase following distance. If visibility drops sharply, safely move off the roadway if possible.
The most severe conditions will be brief but intense, typically lasting 15 to 30 minutes in any one location. However, slick roads and lingering blowing snow may persist even after the heaviest snowfall ends.
Motorists are strongly encouraged to delay travel until the squall passes. Those already on the road should remain alert, avoid sudden maneuvers, and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions during this high-impact winter hazard.
