Cleveland, Ohio – Drivers across northern and central Ohio face a heightened risk of dangerous travel conditions today as snow squalls develop behind an arctic cold front, capable of turning clear roads hazardous in a matter of minutes.
According to the National Weather Service Weather Prediction Center, snow squalls are possible across much of Ohio through this afternoon. These fast-moving bands can produce brief but intense snowfall, strong wind gusts, and sudden drops in visibility, creating near-whiteout conditions with little warning.
The greatest concern is along major roadways, including Interstate 80 across northern Ohio, Interstate 90 from Toledo through Cleveland into northeast Ohio, and Interstate 75 from Toledo south toward Findlay and Lima. Portions of I-71, I-77, and I-76 may also be affected as squalls move quickly east. Snow can rapidly coat road surfaces, especially bridges and exposed stretches, making travel extremely dangerous for high-speed traffic.
Gusty winds behind the front may blow snow across lanes, further reducing visibility and increasing the risk of spinouts and multi-vehicle crashes. Even brief squalls can cause chain-reaction accidents if drivers are caught off guard.
Motorists are urged to slow down immediately if snow squalls develop, turn on headlights, avoid sudden braking, and be prepared to pull off the roadway if visibility drops sharply. The snow squall threat will ease later today, but cold and windy conditions will persist into tonight, keeping winter hazards in place.
