Sunday morning in Cleveland is starting off cloudy and cool, sitting around 45°F with a steady west breeze that will strengthen as the day goes on. Afternoon highs are only expected to reach near 48°F, and the real chill arrives tonight. A Freeze Warning is in effect from 11 PM Sunday (April 19) through 11 AM Monday (April 20). Frost is likely, with lows dropping into the 20s across many inland neighborhoods, so cover tender plants and protect any exposed outdoor plumbing.
Tonight Into Monday Morning
According to NWS Cleveland, sub-freezing temperatures as low as 24°F are possible across portions of northeast Ohio and northwest Pennsylvania. NWS warns that "frost and freeze conditions could kill crops, other sensitive vegetation and possibly damage unprotected outdoor plumbing." Rain showers are likely before midnight and may briefly flip to snow showers around or just after midnight in the snowbelt. Roadways should stay mainly just wet, but some grassy surfaces could pick up a light dusting.
Afternoon Winds And Lake Effects
West winds of 14 to 17 mph are expected today, with higher gusts near Lake Erie and on exposed bridges. Forecasters say gusts could reach around 25 to 30 mph, so it will feel colder than the thermometer suggests. Nearshore boaters should treat the lake with caution, as Small Craft Advisories are in effect for parts of Lake Erie, and drivers can expect blustery crosswinds on elevated roadways.
What To Do
Move potted plants indoors or cover sensitive landscaping tonight, and drain or insulate any exposed irrigation lines. Consider letting faucets connected to uninsulated pipes run at a slow trickle to reduce freeze risk. If you are heading out, dress in layers and plan for gusty winds. The brief rain-to-snow mix after midnight is not expected to cause major travel problems.
Looking Ahead
This chilly snap looks brief. A warming trend returns Tuesday, with highs climbing back into the upper 60s and then into the 70s later in the week. For background on the broader setup behind these temperature swings, see the system driving these swings.
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