Thunderstorms Possible Thursday in Northeast Ohio Before Winds, Weekend Snow

Strong storms, gusty winds, and accumulating snow expected in the coming days.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Northeast Ohio is set to experience a dramatic shift in weather conditions over the next several days. On Thursday, the region faces the possibility of strong thunderstorms, with a marginal risk of severe weather including isolated damaging winds and small hail. This will be followed by gusty winds on Friday as colder air moves in, potentially mixing rain with snow showers. By the weekend, temperatures will drop to more typical late-February levels, with accumulating snow expected, especially in the snowbelt east of Cleveland.

Why it matters

The changing weather patterns in Northeast Ohio can have significant impacts on residents, from the potential for severe storms and power outages to the need to adjust travel plans and outdoor activities due to the expected snowfall. Understanding the timing and intensity of these weather events is crucial for the local community to prepare and stay safe.

The details

According to the National Weather Service, the thunderstorm threat is expected to peak between 9 p.m. Thursday and 4 a.m. Friday, with rainfall totals of a quarter to a half inch anticipated, and the possibility of locally higher amounts in heavier downpours. While widespread severe weather is not expected, a few storms could produce isolated damaging wind gusts and small hail. Behind the cold front, winds will become a bigger concern on Friday, with sustained west to southwest winds of 15 to 25 mph and gusts up to 40 mph possible, especially west of Interstate 71. As colder air deepens, rain may mix with and change to snow showers late Friday, particularly in the snowbelt.

  • On Thursday, temperatures are expected to rise into the upper 50s and low 60s under mostly cloudy skies.
  • The strongest thunderstorms are expected between 9 p.m. Thursday and 4 a.m. Friday.
  • On Friday, temperatures will remain relatively mild early, reaching the low to mid 50s, before colder air steadily filters in.
  • By early Sunday, snow showers are expected to develop, with accumulating snow likely Sunday into Monday.
  • Highs are forecast to fall into the low 40s on Saturday and then into the low to mid 30s on Sunday and early next week, with overnight lows dipping into the 20s.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather-related warnings and advisories.

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What they’re saying

“While widespread severe weather is not expected, a few storms could produce isolated damaging wind gusts and small hail.”

— Forecasters (cleveland.com)

What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the developing weather patterns and provide updated forecasts and warnings as necessary.

The takeaway

Northeast Ohio residents should be prepared for a significant shift in weather conditions over the next several days, from the potential for strong thunderstorms on Thursday to gusty winds and accumulating snow by the weekend. Staying informed about the latest weather updates and taking appropriate safety precautions will be crucial for the local community.