Ohio wakes to a steel-gray sky along Lake Erie, where cold air bites cheeks and wind rattles bare branches. The pavement looks calm, but winter still holds the upper hand.
Early Monday morning temperatures hover near 29 degrees in Cleveland. Wind chills dip into the teens, keeping bridges and elevated ramps slick. Drivers along I-90, I-71, and the Shoreway should use caution, especially during the school commute. Even dry-looking roads may hide patches of black ice.
Skies brighten slightly today, pushing highs near 39 degrees. That modest warm-up begins a rapid transition. Clouds thicken tonight as temperatures rise toward the low 30s. Moisture increases, setting the stage for rain on Tuesday.
Tuesday turns unsettled and damp. Rain becomes widespread by morning, with chances near 90 percent. With surface temperatures climbing into the mid-40s, precipitation stays liquid for most areas. Still, lingering cold ground may keep slick spots early, to be fair. Allow extra travel time through midday.
Rain tapers Tuesday night, then Cleveland settles into a quieter Wednesday. Clouds linger and highs reach the low 40s. Another system approaches late Thursday. Rain chances increase again, with highs climbing into the low 50s. Wet roads and reduced visibility may slow the evening drive.
By Friday, rain continues and temperatures rise into the mid-50s. Colder air follows late, raising attention for refreezing once rain ends. Light snow chances appear over the weekend as winter reasserts itself.
This first full week of January 2026 brings classic Lake Erie winter swings. Cold mornings, wet afternoons, then freeze potential return. Plan ahead, slow down, and watch bridges closely.
How slick were roads where you started your day?
5-Day Cleveland, Ohio Weather Outlook
Monday: Partly sunny. Cold start. High 39.
Tuesday: Rain likely. High 46.
Wednesday: Mostly cloudy. High 42.
Thursday: Chance of rain late. High 51.
Friday: Rain likely. Turning cooler late. High 54.
