Cleveland weather this weekend: summerlike today, high-impact wind and rain Sunday, then a sharp cool-down

A brief October warm spell tops out today in Cleveland before a potent storm slams the area on Sunday with heavy rain, embedded thunderstorms, and strong winds. Early next week turns much cooler and unsettled, with highs sliding into the 50s and lower 60s and periodic showers—classic late-October lake-side chill.

Bassyonni

ago 8 hours

cleveland weather

Today in Cleveland weather: warm, breezy, and mostly cloudy

Cleveland sneaks in one more day that feels more like late September than mid-October. Afternoon temperatures push to around 81°F (27°C) under a blanket of clouds and a persistent breeze. Humidity nudges upward, but the air stays stable enough to keep showers minimal during daytime hours. If you’ve got outdoor chores—leaf cleanup, last-minute grilling—today is your best window to get them done comfortably.

Tips for Saturday

Hydrate and dress in layers: warm temps, but a steady breeze can make shade feel cooler.
Air quality and pollen run moderate; open-air plans are fine, but keep allergy meds handy if ragweed still gets you.
Evening activities remain mild; carry a light layer as winds stay elevated.

Sunday storm: very windy with heavy rain and a few thunderstorms

Sunday is the impact day. Expect periods of heavy rain, isolated to scattered thunderstorms, and strong, gusty winds that could bring down small branches and make driving on elevated roadways tricky. With saturated road surfaces and leaf-clogged drains, ponding is likely in the usual low spots. Keep an eye on backyard items—trash bins, lightweight patio furniture, and Halloween décor are prime candidates to take flight.

What to plan for on Sunday

Travel: Build in extra time; reduced visibility and hydroplaning risk during downpours.
Power reliability: A few localized outages are possible with stronger gusts; fully charge phones and portable batteries.
Outdoor events: Have a sturdy rain plan and consider moving start times or relocating indoors.
Pets & pumpkins: Bring both inside before the wind peaks.

Monday–Wednesday: Cleveland cools down fast

Behind the storm, a cooler air mass sweeps in off the lakes. Highs drop into the 50s to low 60s°F (13–17°C) with a brisk breeze and on-and-off showers, especially during the daytime as lake-effect bands try to organize. Skies won’t be uniformly gray, but sunshine breaks will be fleeting, and wind will keep it feeling raw at times. Overnight lows trend into the 40s, so plan for a real autumn reset when stepping out early.

Commute outlook

Layer up: Wind-chill knocks a few degrees off the thermometer reading.
Umbrella status: Keep it handy; showers will be hit-or-miss but frequent enough to matter.
Yard care: Wet leaves + cooler temps make sidewalks slick—clear pathways when showers let up.

Late week trend: lingering clouds, spotty showers, and a persistent breeze

The broader pattern favors mostly cloudy, cool, and breezy conditions through late week, with occasional light showers rather than all-day rain. Any sunshine will feel welcome but brief. Soil and lawns remain damp, which slows leaf collection and fall planting; choose windows after showers pass and before winds kick up again.

What this means for your plans in Greater Cleveland

Sports & tailgates: Today is the pick for outdoor gatherings. For Sunday viewing parties, indoor setups will be more comfortable; if you’re grilling, use wind-safe burners and stabilize tents.
Lakefront & parks: Elevated waves and rip currents are likely Sunday; avoid piers and breakwalls during peak winds. Trails turn muddy by Monday—boots recommended.
Home maintenance: Today is ideal to clear gutters and secure décor. After the front, check for loose shingles, clogged drains, and scattered debris.
Wardrobe shift: Have waterproof outer layers, a midweight fleece, and windproof accessories ready for the early-week cooldown.

Cleveland weather

Saturday (Oct. 18): Warm for the season, breezy, mostly cloudy, near 81°F.
Sunday (Oct. 19): High impact—very windy with heavy rain and a few thunderstorms; allow extra travel time and secure outdoor items.
Mon–Wed (Oct. 20–22): Cooler and unsettled, highs in the 50s–low 60s, scattered showers, breezy.
Late week: Cloudy, cool, occasional light showers; plan flexible outdoor windows.