Cleveland, OH – Gusty winds and widespread rain will impact northern Ohio and northwest Pennsylvania today as a strong cold front moves through the region, prompting a Wind Advisory for Erie County, Pennsylvania, according to the National Weather Service.
According to the National Weather Service in Cleveland, southerly to southwesterly winds will strengthen from late morning through this evening, with wind gusts reaching 30 to 50 mph. The strongest gusts are expected along and within 10 miles of Lake Erie, particularly in Erie County, PA, where a Wind Advisory is in effect from 11 a.m. Thursday until 1 a.m. Friday.
Despite the wind, temperatures will run above normal, with highs reaching the mid-40s to lower 50s across much of northern Ohio, including Cleveland, Toledo, Sandusky, Akron, and Youngstown. Cooler readings are expected closer to the lakeshore in northwest Pennsylvania, with highs near the upper 40s.
Rain will develop from west to east this afternoon, becoming widespread and occasionally heavy through the evening hours as the cold front approaches. Wet roads combined with strong winds could create hazardous driving conditions, especially during the evening commute.
The National Weather Service warns that unsecured outdoor objects may be blown around, and isolated power outages are possible due to strong gusts, particularly near Lake Erie.
Rain is expected to taper late tonight as the cold front moves east, with cooler air arriving on Friday.
Drivers are urged to use caution in high-profile vehicles, especially on bridges and lakeshore routes, and residents should secure loose outdoor items ahead of peak winds.
