Flooding, Powerful Winds Expected In OH: Hazardous Weather

CLEVELAND — Powerful winds and heavy precipitation will move into northern Ohio on Wednesday and could cause flooding on Thursday, the National Weather Service said.

Temperatures will climb into the low 50s on Wednesday, according to current forecasts. With plenty of snow still on the ground, northern Ohioans should expect flooding throughout the region on Wednesday night or Thursday as the snow melts.

Rain is likely to start Thursday, the National Weather Service said. Some communities could see "locally heavy" downpours throughout the day, leading to puffed up rivers and creeks and more possible flooding.

In addition to the flooding and rainfall, powerful and potentially damaging winds could develop Wednesday. Gusts are expected to hit 40 mph at points this week, according to forecasts.

Once the rain and wind calm slightly, snow could move into northern Ohio on Thursday night and early Friday, the National Weather Service said.

It's unclear how much snow might fall throughout the end of the week, but snowfall predictions should be released as models "become consistent with the track of this strong area of low pressure," the National Weather Service promised.

Friday will be particularly cold, with a high in the low 20s or upper teens expected. However, snow showers should subside after Friday morning and give way to a clear, sunny day. Temperatures will then steadily climb throughout the weekend, according to current forecasts.