Cleveland

Cleveland Set To Sizzle As Tuesday Night Storms Line Up

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Published on May 17, 2026
Cleveland Set To Sizzle As Tuesday Night Storms Line UpSource: Erik Drost, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Cleveland wakes up under clear skies this morning with temperatures near 66°F and a mostly sunny start. Expect a high in the mid‑80s this afternoon. A stray shower or isolated thunderstorm is possible after about 2 p.m., but most neighborhoods should stay dry through the evening. It turns noticeably hotter early next week, with Monday and Tuesday trending into the upper‑80s to near 90°F. Stronger, more widespread storms are possible Tuesday night, so keep an eye on forecasts if you have outdoor plans later in the week.

Afternoon Storm Window

Today's rain chance is modest, about 30%, and any storms that form are likely to be short‑lived with new rainfall amounts under a tenth of an inch in most spots. Brief gusts and sudden downpours could reduce visibility and slow evening commutes if a cell moves through. Keep a compact umbrella handy and secure loose patio furniture if you have outdoor plans.

Hot Early Week

Monday and Tuesday will be the warmest days, with widespread highs in the upper‑80s and a few neighborhoods flirting with 90°F while overnight lows hold in the upper 60s. The local National Weather Service office has flagged elevated heat impacts for this early‑season warm spell. Even though heat indexes should stay below advisory thresholds, the added humidity can still strain those working outdoors. If you or family members are sensitive to heat, shift strenuous activity to morning or evening hours and check on neighbors who may lack air conditioning.

Tuesday Night Severe Threat

A cold front will sweep through Tuesday evening into the night, allowing storms to become more numerous and potentially stronger. Damaging wind gusts are the primary concern, and localized heavy rain is possible. The Storm Prediction Center and local forecasters have highlighted a Slight to Marginal severe risk for parts of the region on Tuesday. Keep a weather radio or phone alerts enabled if you have evening plans on Tuesday.

Boaters, Commuters, What To Do

Lake Erie boaters should monitor building southwest winds and choppy water late Monday into Tuesday, as a Small Craft Advisory may be needed ahead of the front. For daily planning, secure loose outdoor items, carry a rain jacket this afternoon, and move strenuous outdoor work to cooler hours. For the latest watches, warnings, and hour‑by‑hour guidance, see NWS Cleveland, and for more context, read our earlier look at the pop‑up afternoon storms.