Winter Storm and Rail Maintenance Alert: Delays Expected Across Cleveland This Monday

Major Winter Storm Disrupts Monday Commute

Commuters in Cleveland are facing a challenging start to the work week this Monday, January 26, 2026. A significant winter weather event, characterized by arctic air and substantial snow accumulation, has triggered widespread alerts across the region. With snowfall totals of 6 to 12 inches reported in parts of Northeast Ohio and wind chills plunging into the -10 to -20 degree range, transportation officials are urging residents to allow for significant extra travel time or work from home if possible.

RTA Service Alerts and Scheduled Maintenance

The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA) has activated its formal Winterization Plan to combat the freezing temperatures and heavy snow. Commuters should be aware that snow trains are currently operating on the Red, Blue, and Green lines to keep tracks clear and prevent ice buildup on overhead wires. Despite these efforts, rail and bus delays are likely. Notably, the Red Line may see service limited to 30-minute intervals at several stations.

In addition to the weather, a specific maintenance project is impacting the Red Line today:

• Red Line Maintenance: Single tracking is in effect between Puritas and the Airport from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for scheduled track repairs. Travelers heading to Cleveland Hopkins International Airport should plan for delays during this window.
• Salt Shortage: GCRTA has reported a rock salt shortage. While facilities and platforms are being plowed, some transit parking lots may not be fully salted. Pedestrians should exercise extreme caution on sidewalks and in parking areas.
• Elevator Service: The elevator at the Stokes-Windermere Station remains out of service, affecting accessibility for Red Line riders at that terminal.

Highway Conditions and Ongoing Construction

The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) District 12 continues to manage several major long-term projects that are further complicated by the current winter conditions. Drivers on major arteries should watch for the following restrictions:

• I-90 Rehabilitation: Eastbound I-90 between Hilliard Blvd. and Alger Rd. is reduced to three lanes for ongoing pavement replacement. Speed limits may be further reduced today due to visibility and slick pavement.
• I-77 Broadview Heights: Wallings Road remains closed between West Mill Rd. and Mill Rd. for bridge replacement. This includes the closure of the I-77 entrance and exit ramps to Wallings Road, with traffic detoured to Pleasant Valley Rd.
• State Route 176: Construction continues on the bridge deck replacement for the SR 176 north bridge to Steelyard Rd., W. 14th St., and I-71 south, causing narrowed lanes and merging delays.

Safety Recommendations

Due to the dangerous wind chills and hazardous road conditions, officials recommend keeping an emergency kit in your vehicle, including blankets and a mobile charger. For those using public transit, the TransitApp is the most reliable source for real-time bus and rail arrival times during this storm event.