A significant lake-effect snowstorm is impacting Northeast Ohio on Thanksgiving, creating hazardous travel conditions. The storm is characterized by whiteout conditions and wind gusts reaching up to 50 mph. Snow accumulation in the area is projected to exceed a foot, disrupting holiday plans for many travelers.
Snowfall Projections and Weather Alerts
The National Weather Service has forecasted snowfall rates of up to 1 inch per hour. Heavy snowfall is anticipated in Lake County, areas south of I-90, far eastern Cuyahoga County, and northern Geauga County. These regions may experience total accumulations of 12 to 15 inches by Friday evening.
- Lake County: 12 to 15 inches
- Eastern Cuyahoga County: 12 to 15 inches
- Northern Geauga County: 12 to 15 inches
- Inland Erie County, PA: 8 to 15 inches, with potential totals exceeding 18 inches in some areas
Travel Safety Warnings
Forecasters advise motorists to exercise extreme caution while traveling. The most hazardous conditions coincide with Thanksgiving travel on Thursday. Visibility is significantly reduced due to blowing and drifting snow. Wind gusts have prompted the issuance of a Wind Advisory effective through late Thursday night.
A Lake Effect Snow Warning is in place until 7 p.m. Friday for Lake, Geauga, and eastern Cuyahoga counties. Additionally, a Winter Weather Advisory covers surrounding regions.
Weather Conditions and Temperature Outlook
Snow bands are expected to extend inland as the winds shift from southwest to a more west-northwest direction. This shift may bring scattered snow showers to cities like Cleveland and Youngstown. Thursday and Friday will see high temperatures in the low to mid-30s, with overnight temperatures dropping to the low to mid-20s.
| Date | High Temperature | Low Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Thursday | Low to Mid 30s | Low to Mid 20s |
| Friday | Low to Mid 30s | Low to Mid 20s |
Future Forecasts
As the lake-effect snow gradually subsides on Friday night, a new low-pressure system is expected to bring an additional 1 to 2 inches of snow across northern Ohio from Saturday night into Sunday. Areas around Toledo may receive up to 4 inches of snowfall during this period. Rain may mix in or replace the snow on Sunday as temperatures rise into the upper 30s and low 40s.
