Winter Storm Fern: Winter blast on track to dump a lot of snow on Cleveland

CLEVELAND, Ohio – Winter Storm Fern is on track to hit northern Ohio late Saturday through Monday morning, with widespread snow accumulations expected to create hazardous travel conditions.

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for the Cleveland area from 7 p.m. Saturday until 7 a.m. Monday.

On Saturday, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine issued a proclamation declaring a state of emergency. He’s urging residents to stay inside during the storm. Travel will become increasingly difficult throughout Sunday as roads become snow-covered and visibility is reduced.

Snow is expected to reach western parts of the region just before midnight, spreading eastward to Cleveland by 2 a.m. Sunday. The heaviest snowfall will occur Sunday morning and afternoon, with snowfall rates potentially reaching one inch per hour at times, according to the National Weather Service.

Total accumulations of 9-11 inches are forecast for the Cleveland area, with up to 12 inches possible to the southeast by Monday morning, according to the National Weather Service.

Behind the storm system, dangerously cold air will surge into the region. By Monday morning, temperatures will plummet to single digits with wind chills near minus 10 degrees.

Tuesday morning is expected to be even colder, with actual temperatures falling below zero across the entire region and wind chills between minu 15 and minus 25 degrees, according to the National Weather Service.

The cold weather pattern is expected to persist through the end of next week. High temperatures will struggle to reach the teens, with overnight lows near or below zero. Wind chills will remain dangerously cold, especially during the morning hours.

Residents should prepare for this extended period of severe winter weather by ensuring heating systems are functioning properly, protecting exposed pipes, and limiting time outdoors during the coldest periods. The prolonged cold creates elevated risks for cold exposure and potential damage to infrastructure.