Heavy Rain Gives Way to Lake-Effect Snow Tonight
The Power of 5 Weather Forecast brings updates for Cleveland, Akron, and all of Northeast Ohio.
Current Conditions
This morning is chilly and raw, with heavy rain and temperatures near 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Weather Transition This Evening
- Rain will shift to a mix of precipitation, then to all snow by midnight.
- Temperatures will drop into the 30s by late afternoon and approach freezing after sunset.
Snowfall Details
Initial accumulations will be minimal due to warm, wet ground making it difficult for snow to stick without heavy rates of 1-2 inches per hour.
The snow will be wet and slushy, which could cause fallen trees or branches, especially near the lakeshore where leaves remain on trees.
"The combination of heavy wet snow and blustery winds with gusts over 30 miles per hour could lead to tree damage."
Impacts on Roads and Surfaces
- Accumulations will first appear on elevated grassy surfaces that cool faster.
- Bridges and overpasses will likely see slushy conditions before main roads.
Lake-Effect Band Movement
Winds will shift more northerly, causing lake-effect snow bands to shift. A north wind may push a band from Lake Huron down toward areas including Sandusky and Mansfield later this evening.
"There is a west side surprise element with this storm, as 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."
Author’s Summary: A heavy rainstorm will transition to wet, slushy lake-effect snow tonight with strong winds, creating potential hazards, especially near lakefront areas.