Local children got one last gift Monday as their winter break came to a close: the Akron area’s first significant snowfall of the season.
Some families to the north may even have awakened to four inches of snow this morning, if the National Weather Service’s predictions were on the nose.
Flakes have been few and far between this winter – a boon to cities and states that have saved money on road salt and work crews, but a bane to the state’s ski resorts and kids desperate for some sled-riding or a good-natured snowball fight.
The Cowies of Canton took advantage of a short break in Monday’s blustery weather to enjoy the skating rink at Lock 3 in downtown Akron.
“We always love to come here and skate on this thing,” said Rob Cowie, in the company of his wife, Michele Cimprich, and their three children Lily, 9; Flynn, 8; and Violet, 5 months.
He said the family wanted to do something special before Lily and Flynn return to school.
Cleveland Hopkins Airport reported scattered flight disruptions Monday as eight counties were placed under a lake effect snow warning, which remains in effect until noon today. During the heavier snow showers, visibility was a factor, the weather service reported.
Police dispatchers say the wintry weather caused a few fender benders, but noted traffic was light thanks to the extended holiday weekend.
Flurries and a high near 28 are expected today, but no further accumulation is in the forecast.
And if you’re sick of the snow already, just hang in there.
It’s expected to stop falling altogether on Wednesday and disappear from the ground on Friday, when temperatures could climb to 47 degrees.