Did a meteor hit Cleveland? Loud boom rattles homes across Ohio - here's what we know so far

Meteor: What began as a frightening mystery for residents across Northeast Ohio on Tuesday morning now appears to have a natural explanation.

Meteor Cleveland: What Residents Experienced

Just before 9 a.m., a powerful boom echoed across the region, startling people from eastern Cleveland to suburbs like Avon and as far south as North Olmsted, as per reports. The sound was strong enough to rattle homes and windows, with some residents fearing it may have been an explosion. One person said the noise shook their entire house, as per a CBS News report.

Meteor in Cleveland: NWS Cleveland Explains

However, the National Weather Service in Cleveland said the boom was likely caused by a meteor entering Earth’s atmosphere, as per a Hum English report. When meteors travel at high speeds, they can create a sonic boom that sounds like a thunder-like explosion on the ground.

Cleveland Meteor Ohio: How the Meteor Was Detected

Meteorologists pointed to early imagery and data, including readings from a geostationary lightning mapper, which detects quick flashes in the atmosphere. While typically used to track lightning, the instrument can also identify meteors because they appear as bright flashes. Around the time of the boom, it detected a green flash over Cleveland, as per the CBS News report.

Meteor Northeast Ohio: Any Damage or Injuries

No injuries or damage have been reported, but the sudden noise left many residents shaken and searching for answers. Officials said such events are uncommon, but natural and usually harmless.

Meteor Ohio Today: What Happens Next

Further details about the meteor are not yet available, and the American Meteor Society has not commented. The incident comes as other meteors have been spotted in Ohio in recent weeks, including one captured on a doorbell camera in mid-February and another fireball recorded on March 15, as per the CBS News report.

FAQs

What caused the loud boom in Cleveland today?

It was likely caused by a meteor entering Earth’s atmosphere, according to the National Weather Service in Cleveland.

Why did the boom in Cleveland sound like an explosion?

Meteors traveling at high speed can create a sonic boom that sounds like a thunder-like explosion.