Big Snowstorm Inbound: Winter Storm Warning In Northeast Ohio

CLEVELAND — A major winter storm could develop in Northeast Ohio and linger through midweek.

A foot of snow or more could fall in parts of the region, the National Weather Service warned. Snowfall is expected to begin at 7 p.m. Monday and continue through Wednesday morning.

Monday began with rain drenching much of northern Ohio. As temperatures drop, that rain will become snow.

"Heavy snow will be possible, especially for the primary and secondary snowbelts where greater than 12 inches will be possible," the National Weather Service said. "Gusty winds to 35 mph will be possible as well. Snow will diminish from west to east Tuesday through Wednesday."

The winter storm warning was issued for Lorain, Cuyahoga, Lake, Geauga, Ashtabula, Medina, Summit, Portage and Trumbull counties.

"Travel could be very difficult to impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning or evening commute," the National Weather Service said.

Drivers should keep a flashlight and some food and water in their cars in case of an emergency.

This could be the first major snow storm of the season in northeast Ohio.