Cleveland, Ohio, is bracing for a severe winter storm that will disrupt Thanksgiving travel across Northeast Ohio. The National Weather Service has issued several warnings as dangerous winds and significant snowfall are expected to impact the region.
Weather Warnings for Northeast Ohio
The storm is forecasted to affect travelers from this afternoon through Friday. Key weather events include:
- Strong Winds: Gusts may reach up to 50 mph, creating hazardous travel conditions and risk of power outages.
- Rapidly Falling Temperatures: Temperatures will drop to the 30s this afternoon, falling to the 20s tonight, with wind chills in the teens.
- Lake Effect Snow: Heavy snowfall will likely develop late Wednesday and continue through Friday.
Forecasted Snow Accumulation
The snow will predominantly affect snowbelt counties east of Cleveland. Forecasts indicate:
- Accumulations of 8 to 16 inches in northern Geauga, Lake, and Ashtabula counties.
- Some areas may see totals approaching 18 inches.
Travel Advisories and Alerts
The National Weather Service has taken precautions by issuing a Lake Effect Snow Warning. This alert is in effect from 1 a.m. Thursday until 7 p.m. Friday. Snowfall rates could reach 1 to 2 inches per hour on Thursday, posing significant dangers for those traveling.
In response, the Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission announced a travel ban for high-profile vehicles along the 241-mile toll road. Additionally, a winter storm watch is in place for parts of Northeast Ohio, beginning Thanksgiving morning and lasting through Friday evening.
Impact on Travel Conditions
Wind advisories are active from 10 a.m. Thursday until 1 a.m. Friday, particularly along Lake Erie, with gusts of up to 40 mph expected. These winds combined with fresh snowfall will create blowing snow and greatly restrict visibility.
Weather Outlook Beyond Thanksgiving
Travelers can anticipate a gradual tapering of snow from west to east on Friday as drier air begins to infiltrate the area. High temperatures will remain in the 30s, while overnight lows drop to the upper teens and mid-20s.
Saturday may bring a brief respite as high pressure moves through, but another storm system is anticipated later in the weekend. A mix of rain and snow could occur late Saturday into Sunday, with temperatures rising into the 40s before colder air returns next week.
