Cleveland, Ohio – A dangerous surge of Arctic air is expected to settle across northern Ohio between Jan. 18 and Jan. 22, bringing a high likelihood of subzero wind chills as a clipper system reinforces an increasingly cold pattern across the eastern United States.
According to the Climate Prediction Center’s 6–10 day temperature outlook, northern Ohio is positioned within an area showing a 90% probability of below-normal temperatures, one of the strongest cold signals in the region. This pattern is driven by strong ridging over the western U.S. and Alaska, allowing a deep Arctic trough to anchor over the Great Lakes and Ohio Valley.
Daytime high temperatures are expected to remain well below mid-January averages, while overnight lows drop sharply. Increasing northwest winds behind the clipper system are expected to significantly enhance cold exposure, with wind chill values very likely falling below zero, especially during overnight and early morning hours. The coldest conditions are expected closer to Lake Erie and across exposed areas of northern Ohio.
Through Jan. 22, precipitation chances remain near normal for this time of year, with no clear signal for widespread snow during the core cold window. The Arctic air mass is expected to be relatively dry, limiting snowfall potential despite the intense cold.
Looking beyond the immediate cold stretch, forecast guidance indicates a 20% to 40% risk of heavy snow during the Jan. 20–26 timeframe across portions of northern Ohio, extending into Pennsylvania, Indiana, and Michigan. While confidence in storm timing remains limited, the cold air in place would support impactful snow if systems develop.
For northern Ohio commuters, students, and outdoor workers, this period poses elevated cold-related safety concerns, including frostbite risk and increased strain on heating systems. Residents are urged to monitor updated forecasts and prepare for prolonged exposure to dangerously cold wind chills.
