Dangerous Heat and Humidity Grips Northeast Ohio

This afternoon's high temps will be in the lower and middle 90s with Heat index readings in the triple digits. Prep early so the afternoon doesn't get dangerous. It's been a couple weeks, so don't let it sneak up on you.

CLEVELAND, OHIO — Brace yourselves, Northeast Ohio. A dangerous combination of intense heat and tropical-like humidity is surging across the region today, prompting official Heat Advisories and setting the stage for a stormy weekend ahead.

According to the Power of 5 Weather Team, temperatures this afternoon are expected to soar into the lower to mid-90s, but it will feel more like 100–105°F thanks to the suffocating humidity.

“It’s the kind of heat that makes your steering wheel feel like lava and your T-shirt stick before you even get to your car,” joked meteorologist Frank Marzullo. “But this isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s potentially dangerous.”

Heat Advisory Issued for Greater Cleveland and Akron Areas

The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory for much of Northeast Ohio, including Cleveland, Akron, Canton, and surrounding communities. The advisory is in effect from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, urging residents to take precautions:

Stay hydrated

Avoid outdoor activity during peak hours (12–5 p.m.)

Never leave children or pets in vehicles

Heat-related illness can sneak up quickly—especially after a break in extreme temperatures. It’s been nearly two weeks since our last heat wave, which increases the risk for those unprepared.

Did you know? According to the CDC, over 700 people die from heat-related causes each year in the U.S., many of them preventable.

⛈Storms Building: Weekend Flood Threat Looms

While most of Thursday remains dry, the atmosphere is already cooking up trouble. A few isolated storms may pop this evening, but the real action begins Friday.

Here's what to expect:

Friday Afternoon to Evening: Scattered storms develop and sweep southeast overnight

Saturday: Widespread rainfall, heavier at times — elevated risk of flash flooding

Sunday: Storms linger, especially during the afternoon

“Think of Friday as the opening act and Saturday as the main event,” said Trent Magill. “Storms could bring 60+ mph wind gusts, torrential rain, and frequent lightning. We’re watching radar closely for potential severe weather alerts.”

📊 Forecast Snapshot: Cleveland & Akron 5-Day Outlook

Day Condition High Temp Outlook

Thursday Hot & mostly dry 94°F Heat Index 102–105°F

Friday Scattered storms 85°F Storm risk increases PM

Saturday Widespread storms 86°F Flash flooding possible

Sunday Stormy & humid 84°F Lightning & heavy rain

Monday Drying out 82°F Cooler & calmer

🧊 A Summer Story: “I Turned My House Into a Freezer”

Tamara from Parma shared this with News 5:

“I wrapped my AC unit in foil, shut all my blinds, and turned my living room into a Netflix cave. Even my dog wouldn’t go outside. It’s that hot.”

Sound familiar? You're not alone. The heat index has climbed over 100°F for much of Ohio this summer, pushing AC units—and tempers—to their limits.

🚨 Heat Safety: Know the Signs of Heat Stroke

If you're experiencing:

Dizziness or confusion

Rapid heartbeat

Lack of sweating despite heat

Nausea or vomiting

Call 911 immediately and move to a cooler area.

📲 Stay Connected with the Power of 5 Forecast Team

Download the News 5 Weather App for real-time storm tracking

Follow us on social media for alerts, tips, and storm updates

Watch our 6PM broadcast for the latest radar models and severe weather outlook

🏁 Bottom Line

It’s a two-part punch: record heat today, storms tomorrow and through the weekend. Prepare now. Stay cool. Stay safe.

After a break from the rain, showers and storms will return to the forecast on Friday.

A cold front is going to set up shop nearby from Friday through Sunday, and this will be the focus mechanism for showers and storms throughout the weekend.

It won’t rain constantly this weekend, but there will be storms in the area from time to time.

It will also be quite humid this weekend with highs in the low to mid 80s.

And if you hear thunder? Go indoors immediately.

Remember: “When thunder roars, go indoors.”