Ohio Snowfall: Average Last Date & City-by-City Guide (2026)

Ohio Braces for Potential Late-Season Snowfall

Ohioans hoping for an early spring may not be out of the snow yet, according to historical data analyzed on February 14, 2026. Despite recent warmer temperatures, the possibility of late-season snowfall, even into May, remains a distinct possibility.

The analysis, compiled from National Weather Service records, reveals a wide range in the average last measurable snowfall across the state. Cleveland typically sees its final flakes around April 8, while Columbus residents can usually expect a last dusting by March 31. However, significant variations exist.

Akron-Canton’s average last snowfall is April 9, but the city experienced snow as late as May 9 in 1966. Cincinnati’s average is March 25, but a late-season storm dropped snow on the city as recently as May 6, 1989. “The wide range in dates for the last snowfall highlights the variability of Ohio’s winter weather,” an expert insight included in the data notes. “While temperatures have recently warmed, the historical data suggests the possibility of additional snowfall even into April.”

This winter season has already brought a mix of weather events to Ohio, including fast-moving clipper systems and intrusions of Arctic air, alongside localized heavy accumulations of lake-effect snow near Lake Erie.

City-by-City Breakdown of Last Snowfall Dates

Here’s a look at the average and historical snowfall dates for several Ohio cities:

• Akron-Canton: Average last snowfall – April 9; Earliest – March 8 (2025); Latest – May 9 (1966)
• Cincinnati: Average last snowfall – March 25; Earliest – Feb. 11 (1919); Latest – May 6 (1989)
• Cleveland: Average date of last measurable snowfall – April 8; Earliest last snow: Feb. 28 (1927); Latest last snow: May 11 (2020)
• Columbus: Average date of last measurable snowfall – March 31; Earliest last snow: Feb. 16 (1997); Latest last snow: May 9 (1923)
• Dayton: Average date of last measurable snowfall – March 29; Earliest last snow: Feb. 7 (1945); Latest last snow: May 9 (1983)
• Toledo: Average date of last measurable snowfall – April 3; Earliest last snow: Feb. 25 (1946); Latest last snow: May 7 (1989)

Winter storms have varied in their impact this season. Quick clipper systems often deliver a few inches of snow with gusty winds, while Arctic air masses can linger, allowing snow to accumulate over several days. Lake-effect bands can dump significant snowfall in concentrated areas, leading to uneven snow totals across the state.

While temperatures have recently risen, the historical data suggests that Ohio could still see fresh snow fall into April. The state has experienced various winter weather events this season, from fast-moving clipper systems to Arctic air intrusions that have brought bitter cold and snow.

Lake-effect snow near Lake Erie has added to localized accumulations, particularly along the western and eastern shores.