Ohio residents should brace themselves for an episode of strong to severe thunderstorms, as per the latest forecasts by the National Weather Service (NWS) in Cleveland. NWS experts are closely monitoring an "elevated convection across the region" and note that areas along the I-71/77 corridors should particularly be on alert for possible "damaging wind threat" this afternoon and early evening. Thunderstorms could hit the region between 3 and 7 PM, bringing not just gusty winds but also hail, and "heavy rain is also likely to accompany thunderstorms," reports NWS Cleveland. Thankfully, flooding risks appear to be minimal owing to "high FFGs and the heaviest rain falling outside of urban areas."
Those venturing outdoors may want to plan accordingly, as conditions are expected to change rapidly throughout the day. Skies will likely be a mixed bag with periods of calm interrupted by potential thunderstorm activity. Model guidance predicts that line segments could be the "primary storm mode", while there is also talk about a "low-end embedded tornado threat" in the mix. Prospects of hail are deemed low due to "the warm mid-levels" of the atmosphere, according to NWS Cleveland. Following today's weather theatrics, a secondary wave of low pressure will continue to keep things interesting as the weekend approaches.
For the weekend warriors, it seems like a good time to dust off those board games and umbrellas. As Friday gives way to Saturday, a large-scale trough is set to bring rain and cooler temperatures. That "cut-off low" settling in the mid-Mississippi Valley might stick around, making it "a rainy, cool weekend" with "high temperatures in the upper 50s to around 60," suggests NWS Cleveland. The shift into Sunday might even include a "slight chance of thunderstorms" – so keep that rain gear handy.
Aviation interests aren't to be left unscathed. The NWS anticipates possible "MVFR and/or IFR vsbys in showers and thunderstorms" which could impact flights, particularly across the eastern terminals. Current conditions are mainly VFR, but as storms roll through, "non-VFR" patches are likely, especially this afternoon and evening. Aviation traffic along the I-71/77 corridor should be particularly watchful for "brief tempo windows" of thunderstorms that could bring "gusty winds," being the primary hazard. Pilots, keep those landing lights on and navigational aids primed.
Boaters in the marine sector may need to exercise caution as well, with winds possibly reaching "small craft advisory criteria" sporadically. Winds from the northeast are expected to increase during the weekend as low pressure lingers to the south, resulting in choppy conditions. Look for "periods of small craft advisory conditions" and plan your sea jaunts accordingly, advises NWS Cleveland. By early next week, however, it seems clear skies – and smoother sailing – may be on the horizon.
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