Weather

Ohio Snow and 45-MPH Wind Gusts Could Snarl Friday Commute From Cleveland to Columbus

BySaluda Standard Sentinel Team February 6, 2026February 6, 2026

OHIO — A fast-moving snow setup is expected to sweep across the state Friday, and while this is not being framed as a blockbuster winter storm, forecasters are warning it could still turn into a high-impact travel day because of timing and wind. The bigger wildcard isn’t just totals — it’s the potential for 35–45 mph wind gusts that can blow around both old and new snow, quickly changing road conditions during the commute.

What’s Different About This Snow Event

This system is being described as the kind of “sneaky” winter setup that catches people off guard. Snow totals may look manageable on paper, but strong gusts can reduce visibility, cause blowing and drifting, and make roads feel worse than the raw accumulation suggests. Travel can deteriorate fast, even if your area only picks up a few inches.

Expected Snow Totals Across Ohio

Current expectations point to a sharp difference depending on where you live:

Northeast Ohio: 2–5 inches in many spots
Lake-enhanced areas near the snowbelt: 4–6 inches, with the chance of an isolated higher report
Much of the rest of the region: 1–3 inches

The snowfall map shows the highest pocket near Cleveland reaching 4–6 inches, while areas such as Mansfield and Canton sit closer to 2–5 inches. Cities including Toledo and parts of northwest Ohio appear closer to the 1–3 inch range, with a broader 2–5 inch zone stretching through portions of central Ohio, including around Columbus.

Wind Could Be the Travel Problem

Forecasters are emphasizing that Friday morning and afternoon may be the roughest stretch, with gusty winds blowing snow back onto treated roads. That combination can produce sudden slick spots, brief whiteout-like bursts, and drifting — especially on open highways and rural stretches.

Will Schools Close

Closures are possible, but timing matters. If the worst conditions line up with the morning commute — and winds keep snow moving around — districts may decide it’s not worth the risk.

Stay alert for updated local statements overnight and early Friday, and if you have to drive, slow down, leave extra space, and build extra time into your trip.

If this weather hits your part of Ohio, what did conditions look like where you live? Share your updates with us at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.

By Saluda Standard-Sentinel Team | Category: Weather

Saluda Standard Sentinel Team

The Saluda Standard-Sentinel Team represents the collective voice of our newsroom — covering urgent updates, official notices, and stories compiled by multiple reporters. Rooted in the South and committed to trusted local journalism, our team brings timely, community-first reporting to readers across South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia.