Heavy Rain Transitions to Lake-Effect Snow Tonight
The Power of 5 Weather Forecast covers Cleveland, Akron, and Northeast Ohio, reporting a shift from heavy rain to snowfall overnight as the lake-effect snow begins.
Current Conditions
This morning is chilly and damp with heavy rain and temperatures near 40°F. Throughout the afternoon and into the evening, temperatures will drop into the 30s and near freezing after sunset.
Weather Changes Tonight
- The rain will switch to a wintry mix, then to all snow by midnight.
- Initial snow accumulations will be light due to warm, wet ground, which prevents sticking unless snowfall rates reach 1-2 inches per hour.
- Snow will be wet and slushy, increasing the risk of fallen trees or branches, especially near the lakeshore where leaves remain.
- Gusty winds over 30 mph combined with heavy, wet snow could cause tree damage.
Impact on Surfaces and Traffic
Snow will begin accumulating first on elevated grassy areas, then progress to bridges and overpasses, which will see slushy conditions before the roads.
Lake-Effect Snow Bands and Wind
As winds shift to a northerly direction, lake-effect snow bands will move, potentially impacting the western side unexpectedly.
"A north wind is likely to push a band from Lake Huron down to areas like Sandusky and as far south as Mansfield later this evening."
This means some areas on the west side could experience an unexpected surge in lake-effect snowfall.
Summary
Expect heavy rain to transition into wet, heavy lake-effect snow tonight with gusty winds that may bring localized tree damage and challenges on roads, especially on elevated and northern areas.
"This snow will be wet and slushy, potentially causing fallen trees or branches, especially those near the lakeshore that still have a decent amount of leaves."
Author's Summary: A shift from heavy rain to wet, heavy lake-effect snow tonight brings risks of fallen branches and slippery roads, especially along the lakeshore and elevated surfaces in Northeast Ohio.