The lack of spring rain and snow led to drought in northern Ohio.

What You Need To Know

  • For early May, nearly 21% of the state is in a moderate drought

  • After record snowfall in February, most places had little to no snow in March

  • There was more snow in April than in March

  • After a dry March, conditions improved in April, but northern Ohio is still in a rain deficit 

Currently, the entire northern tier of the state is under a moderate drought, with abnormally dry conditions throughout the Ohio valley. Nearly 21% of the northern edge of the state is under a moderate drought.

After record-setting snowfall through February, we experienced the complete opposite in March! 

When looking at rain and snowfall totals versus average totals in major cities, most places picked up a trace or less of snow, which is well below average.

In northern Ohio, there was a big difference. 

We picked up on some relief in April, and cities like Cleveland saw some much-needed precipitation.  

There was more snow in April than March! On April 1 and April 21, Cleveland had measurable snow, totaling up to 8.7 inches. On April 21 alone, the late-season storm dropped 4.5 inches! 

Most of the state saw at least a dusting of snow on April 21, but nonetheless, we had impressive snowfall totals late in the season. 

Cleveland also picked up on rain totals in April and was 0.20 inches above average April rainfall.