The National Weather Service in Cleveland is forecasting a chill in the air and some wintry mix for Ohioans. A weak cold front is expected to stall over Lake Erie today, with a clipper system following closely behind on Sunday. This will be succeeded by a stronger cold frontal passage as high pressure builds in on Monday, according to the NWS Area Forecast Discussion. Temperatures are anticipated to languish below average in the low to mid-30s, while Sunday might see a collective inch of snow across northern Ohio and northwest Pennsylvania.
Residents in this region should prepare for light snowy conditions as early as this afternoon, predominantly affecting lakeshore areas of far northeast Ohio and northwest Pennsylvania. Erie County, PA, and northern Ashtabula County, OH, could see up to two inches of snow. And, those who enjoy snow activities, remember, the colder temperatures tonight, dipping into the 20s, could make for a brisk evening outdoors. Moisture levels during this period are expected to be on the lower side, with some mid-level dry air in the mix.
It’s not just the temperature drop that will remind us that winter is creeping in. A weak clipper system set to trek across the Upper Midwest and lower Great Lakes on Sunday brings a fresh chance of light snow. A subsequent stronger cold front will push through Sunday afternoon, increasing the likelihood of lake effect or lake enhancement snow showers late Sunday into the night. The National Weather Service implies snow accumulations of 1 to 3 inches may be possible, mainly for the traditionally snow-laden 'Snowbelt' region. These developments suggest a slightly white ambiance for the weekend in those areas.
There’s some light at the end of the tunnel; high pressure will grace the Great Lakes briefly on Monday, albeit with highs stubbornly fixed in the 20s. As the week progresses, another shortwave trough is expected on Tuesday, potentially dusting northern counties with light snow. Mariners, take note; marine conditions could get choppy with increasing winds of 15 to 25 mph as the system shuffles north of Lake Erie, according to the NWS Marine Outlook. Indeed, those planning any lake activities should stay informed of changes that might affect water-based pastimes.
The outlook hinting toward a continuation of a cold and busy weather pattern for the rest of the week should grab the attention of residents. Expect a dance of temperatures with sporadic rounds of light snow courtesy of passing clippers, and a potential setup for significant lake effect snow that could impact travel and outdoor plans towards week's end. As always, stay tuned to local updates and prepare accordingly for those wintry forecasts.
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