Lake Effect Snow in Ohio: How to Prepare & Protect Your Home

Ohio transforms into a winter wonderland when snowflakes start falling. While snow-covered landscapes and buildings appear magical and peaceful, this form of precipitation, particularly lake-effect snow, can do more harm than good to your home.

Heavy snow accumulation on your roof can cause collapse and other damage, while melting snow can result in dangerous leaks, flooding, water damage, and foundation damage.

Don’t be caught off guard by Mother Nature and Old Man Winter. Our winter guide explains lake-effect snow, preventing snowmelt flooding, and how to protect your home from destruction.

Snow is nothing new to Ohioans. You either love it or hate it.

While snow falls throughout the Buckeye State, lake-effect snow only impacts a portion of Ohio. Some residents may not be familiar with this natural phenomenon, so let’s start by answering the common question, “What is lake effect snow?”

Lake effect snow occurs when cold winter air moves across the warmer waters of the Great Lakes—in this case, Lake Erie. As the cold air passes over the relatively warm lake water, it picks up heat and moisture. This warm, moist air rises, cools, and then condenses into snow clouds. When these clouds move inland, they can produce intense snowfall in concentrated areas, particularly in Northeast Ohio.

1. Foundation Issues

Heavy snowfall and subsequent snowmelt flooding can lead to significant foundation problems. As snow accumulates around your home’s foundation and begins to melt, the water can seep into existing cracks or create new ones. This process can worsen during freeze-thaw cycles, potentially leading to serious structural issues, including foundation settlement or collapse.

2. Basement Flooding

Preventing snowmelt flooding becomes crucial during lake-effect snow events. As temperatures rise and snow begins to melt, the resulting water can overwhelm your home’s drainage system and reach your basement through foundation cracks or poorly sealed windows.

3. Roof Stress

During intense lake effect snow events, several feet can accumulate quickly, putting tremendous strain on your roof. This weight can lead to roof sagging, structural damage, or in extreme cases, collapse. For example, the post-Thanksgiving 2024 winter blast that devastated Lake and Ashtabula counties resulted in several roof collapses, including residential garages, warehouses, and a school.

• Install a proper drainage system around your home’s perimeter
• Maintain gutters and downspouts
• Ensure your yard slopes away from your home’s foundation
• Seal any visible foundation cracks before winter
• Keep snow at least 2-3 feet away from your foundation walls

• Install an interior drainage system
• Pair interior drains with a sump pump with a battery backup
• Seal basement windows and ensure proper window wells
• Keep basement window wells clear of snow
• Monitor your basement regularly during heavy snow events

• Inspect your roof before winter to ensure it is structurally sound
• Replace damaged or missing shingles
• Ensure proper attic insulation and ventilation to prevent ice dams
• Consider installing snow guards to prevent sudden snow slides
• Trim tree branches that could fall under snow’s weight
• Remove snow from your roof if accumulation exceeds 6 inches

Keep snow removal equipment readily accessible:

• Snow shovels
• Snowblower with fresh fuel
• Ice melt or sand
• Roof rake for snow removal
• Generator with adequate fuel supply

Create an emergency kit including:

• Battery-powered radio and extra batteries
• Flashlights and emergency lighting
• Non-perishable food and water for 3-5 days
• First aid supplies
• Portable phone chargers
• Emergency heating source and fuel

• Schedule a furnace inspection and maintenance
• Insulate water pipes to prevent freezing
• Clean and inspect chimneys and heating vents
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Install programmable thermostats to maintain consistent temperature
• Add extra insulation to attics and walls where needed

If you’re concerned about your home’s foundation or basement during lake effect snow season, consulting with a professional foundation expert like Ohio Basement Authority can provide peace of mind and help identify potential issues before they become serious problems.

We have many years of experience with helping Ohio homeowners weather winter storms and create safer homes. We’re excited to help you, too. Contact us today to schedule a free inspection and receive a no-obligation estimate to ensure your home’s long-term safety.