UPDATE: A powerful winter storm is set to impact Cleveland and Northeast Ohio on Monday, December 25, 2023, bringing dangerously high winds, snow squalls, and a drastic drop in temperatures. Residents are urged to prepare for hazardous conditions as the storm approaches.
The storm will unleash winds gusting up to 60 mph, causing potential damage and creating perilous travel situations. As a strong cold front moves through the area late tonight, temperatures will plunge from the low 60s to the mid-20s within hours. Rain will transition to snow by mid-Monday morning, complicating travel plans.
Snow squalls are expected to develop on Monday afternoon and evening, potentially leading to brief whiteout conditions and rapidly accumulating snow. Residents in parts of Northeast Ohio can expect between 3 and 7 inches of snow, with higher totals possible in eastern Ashtabula and Geauga Counties. Blowing snow will drastically reduce visibility, posing significant risks, especially during the evening commute.
“Hazardous travel conditions are expected due to strong winds and blowing snow,” warned local meteorologists.
Wind chills will plummet into the low teens and even single digits, creating dangerously cold conditions for those venturing outdoors. Authorities are advising residents to stay indoors and avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.
Another weather system is forecast to sweep through the Great Lakes on Wednesday, bringing additional snowfall to the region. New Year’s Eve celebrations on Thursday night are likely to occur under frigid conditions, with temperatures forecast to remain at or below freezing and wind chills possibly dropping to near zero by Friday morning.
As the storm progresses, local officials are emphasizing the importance of staying informed. They recommend that residents monitor updates and prepare for potential power outages due to high winds. The weather pattern is expected to stabilize slightly as high pressure builds across the Midwest and Great Lakes heading into next weekend, although temperatures will remain cold.
Stay tuned for further updates as this developing situation unfolds. The community is encouraged to prioritize safety and follow guidance from local authorities.
