When Will Northeast Ohio See Its First Snow of the Season?
According to Fox8, As much as we may wish to resist it, snow is on its way to Northeast Ohio.
This week, fall-like temperatures are set to arrive, signaling that the first measurable snowfall might not be far behind. According to the National Weather Service, a first snowfall is defined as one that measures at least one-tenth of an inch.
Average First Measurable Snowfall in Northeast Ohio
Last year, the region experienced its first measurable snowfall on October 31. Here’s when various cities in Northeast Ohio typically see their first snowfall:
- Cleveland: November 10
- Akron/Canton: November 9
- Youngstown: November 5
- Mansfield: November 18
Interestingly, the earliest recorded snowfall in Cleveland and Akron/Canton occurred on October 2 in 2003 and 1974, respectively. Conversely, the latest snowfall for Cleveland happened on January 1, 1924. So, while history shows that snow can arrive as early as October or as late as January, the amount of snow expected remains uncertain.
Average Snowfall for the Winter Season
On average, the expected snowfall throughout the winter season is as follows:
- Cleveland: 63.8 inches
- Akron/Canton: 47.2 inches
However, these averages come with significant fluctuations. For instance, Cleveland recorded its highest snowfall ever at approximately 117 inches during the 2004-2005 season, while the least was only 8.8 inches in the 1918-1919 season, indicating that some snow is likely this upcoming winter.
Early Snowfall Over the Last 11 Years
The National Weather Service has compiled data on the first snow events in Northeast Ohio. Here’s a summary of when the first measurable snow occurred for Cleveland, as recorded at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport:
- 2023-2024: October 31
- 2022-2023: November 13
- 2021-2022: November 14
- 2020-2021: November 11
- 2019-2020: November 7
- 2018-2019: November 9
- 2017-2018: November 11
- 2016-2017: December 4
- 2015-2016: October 17
- 2014-2015: November 13
- 2013-2014: November 8
Looking Ahead
The first day of winter is December 21, and as indicated by the dates above, snowfall usually arrives in the Cleveland area by mid-fall.
It’s worth noting that last winter was relatively mild, with Cleveland only receiving about 26 inches of snow during the entire season. However, this winter might differ, though it’s still too early for accurate forecasts.
As always, FOX 8 meteorologists will release their winter weather outlook in late October. In the meantime, let’s take advantage of these snow-free days while we can—it’s still technically summer!
