Cleveland, Ohio – Northern Ohio and Northwest Pennsylvania shivered through a cooler-than-average May as frequent rainstorms and wind gusts swept across the region, causing soggy commutes and delayed outdoor plans.
According to the National Weather Service in Cleveland, average high temperatures ranged 4 to 5 degrees below normal across most cities, with Cleveland peaking at just 66.1°F—five degrees below the 30-year average. The coldest reading hit Erie, PA at 36°F on May 9, while Toledo briefly warmed to 85°F on May 16.
Rainfall surged above seasonal norms, with Youngstown soaking up 5.47 inches—1.75 inches more than usual. Cleveland and Akron-Canton also saw significant surpluses, recording 5.30″ and 4.76″ respectively. May 21 brought over an inch of rain to both Cleveland and Erie, hampering visibility and causing minor flooding in low-lying areas.
Winds roared across the region mid-month, with Akron-Canton clocking a 65 mph gust and Mansfield reaching 58 mph on May 16. These gusts downed small branches and briefly disrupted power service in scattered neighborhoods.
While cooler temps are expected to ease heading into June, residents should remain alert as wet conditions linger into early summer.
