Cleveland wakes up chilly and gray Thursday, with temperatures stuck near 39°F and some patchy fog hanging around. A warm front is on the move, lifting north through the day and sending inland spots into the 70s by mid to late afternoon while scattered showers slide east. Expect a soggy morning commute and gusty southerly winds that could complicate outdoor plans through this evening.
Afternoon Warmup And Spotty Showers
Rain showers are likely before 11 a.m., with a chance of showers and thunderstorms between 11 a.m. and noon, and a high near 75°F. Southeast winds will run about 6 to 14 mph with gusts up to 24 mph this afternoon, according to the National Weather Service Cleveland. The warmest readings should be inland and west of I-77, where upper 70s are possible if clouds thin out long enough. Short, heavy downpours can briefly knock down visibility, so build in some extra time for the drive.
Tonight Into Friday: Watch The Timing
The forecast discussion flags "continued shower and thunder potential Friday and Friday night," with some uncertainty about where the front stalls, which will decide who takes the brunt of the heavier rain and any stronger storms. For the deeper meteorology, see the NWS Cleveland forecast discussion. The main window for any stronger storms in northwest counties looks to be roughly 8 p.m. to midnight, while heavier, training showers could lead to locally efficient rainfall Friday night in some spots. If you have outdoor plans Friday night, it is smart to have an indoor backup and keep an eye on watches and warnings.
Saturday Front Then Cooler Week
A stronger cold front is expected late Saturday into Saturday night, bringing a more organized band of showers and thunderstorms along with a low-end severe and heavy-rain risk. Conditions then turn much cooler Sunday into early next week, with highs in the 40s and 50s and overnight lows dipping into the 20s by Tuesday night. Mariners and anyone with weekend lake plans should monitor conditions, as nearshore waves and gusty winds may make the lake choppy.
For background on how this pattern has been evolving, see the recent flurries-to-spring warmup from March 28. We will update if watches or warnings are issued; otherwise, plan on a warm but unsettled stretch and be ready for wet, blustery conditions.
