As of 5:35 a.m. EDT today, Cleveland was clear and mild with temperatures near 68°F. Do not get too comfortable, though: a fast-moving cold front is set to turn the afternoon and evening much more active. Highs should reach around 78°F with southwest winds of 15 to 20 mph and gusts into the 30s. Showers may develop this afternoon, with thunderstorms likely by evening and continuing into the night.
Storms This Afternoon And Evening
The main window for organized storms runs roughly from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. today. Convection moving in from the west could produce damaging straight-line winds and large hail. Forecasters have highlighted a Slight Risk for severe storms and warn that gusts in stronger cells could approach 40 mph, with frequent lightning and brief bursts of heavy rain.
Storms that start out more isolated could grow into small lines or clusters as the evening wears on. That setup raises the odds of downed branches and brief power outages as the line pushes through. According to the National Weather Service in Cleveland, this is the primary severe window and timing for the region.
Rain Totals And Flooding
Most of the area is forecast to pick up about 0.75 to 1.50 inches of rain through Wednesday, with pockets of 1 to 2 inches possible tonight and isolated 2 to 3 inch totals where storms train over the same locations. Those heavier bands could produce brief urban or roadside flooding and will raise water on smaller streams, so avoid driving through standing water. Keep an eye on local alerts if you live in flood-prone neighborhoods.
What To Expect For Your Commute
The evening commute today may be the trickiest stretch. Gusty winds and quick downpours can cut visibility and make roads slick, especially between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. Bringing loose outdoor items inside is a smart move, and nonessential outdoor plans are better saved for another day. Boating on Lake Erie is not advised while winds increase.
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