Wilmington, Ohio – Bitterly cold air combined with increasing winds is expected to drive dangerous wind chill values across southwest and central Ohio late this week, raising safety concerns for overnight and early-morning hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, temperatures will remain cold today and Friday, but strengthening winds Friday night into Saturday morning will cause wind chills to drop sharply. Forecast wind chill values are expected to range from -15 to -25 degrees, with the coldest readings occurring overnight.
The most severe conditions are expected along and near major transportation corridors including Interstate 75, Interstate 70, Interstate 71, and US-35, where open exposure can intensify wind impacts. Cities including Wilmington, Dayton, Columbus, Sidney, and Marysville may experience wind chills cold enough to cause frostbite in a short period of time.
Forecasters warn that frostbite can occur in as little as 30 minutes or less on exposed skin, and prolonged exposure may lead to hypothermia. Outdoor activity should be limited, and anyone spending time outside is urged to dress in multiple insulating layers, including hats and gloves.
The National Weather Service also recommends checking on elderly neighbors, family members, and those without reliable heating. Pets should be brought indoors, and livestock should have access to shelter and unfrozen water.
Drivers should prepare for extreme cold impacts on vehicles, including reduced battery performance. Those traveling overnight or early Saturday should keep emergency supplies in their vehicles, especially when traveling along highways and rural routes.
While temperatures are expected to remain cold into the weekend, forecasters note that a gradual warming trend is possible next week, with highs returning to the 20s and 30s.
Officials emphasize that Friday night into Saturday morning will be the most dangerous period, and residents should take precautions now to avoid cold-related injuries.
