Pesky snow showers and squalls that prompted the weather service to issue a lake effect snow warning for Greater Akron (Cuyahoga, Summit and Portage counties) through 7 p.m. Saturday could drop as much as a half foot of snow in some spots where squalls persist.

The National Weather Service says snow − heavy at times − is in the forecast for northern Ohio. A Lake Effect Snow Warning is in effect starting at 7 a.m. Friday through 7 p.m. Saturday for Summit, Portage and Cuyahoga counties.

The City of Akron is extending hours at the Summit Lake Community Center from Jan. 5-10 to provide a warming center for residents in need, according to Akron Mayor Shammas Malik.

With freezing cold temperatures expected in the coming days, both Akron and Cleveland have announced warming center hours for residents.

As temperatures dip below freezing, Cleveland and Akron are opening warming centers for anyone who needs shelter from the cold.