Wilmington, Ohio — A return to winter travel hazards is expected across southwest and central Ohio as snow showers move in late Thursday and temperatures fall sharply heading into Friday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, dry conditions will prevail through Wednesday and Thursday, allowing for a brief break before the next system arrives. Snow showers are forecast to develop Thursday night, continuing into Friday evening, accompanied by breezy conditions and rapidly falling temperatures.
Forecasters warn that slick road conditions are possible, especially after dark Friday, as temperatures drop quickly below freezing. Due to the rapid cooling, even light snowfall may be enough to create hazardous travel, particularly on untreated roads, bridges, and overpasses.
Probability maps indicate a moderate chance of at least one inch of snowfall across parts of the region, including areas near Interstate 71, Interstate 75, Interstate 70, U.S. Route 68, and Interstate 275. Snowfall amounts are still uncertain, but impacts may be greater than totals suggest due to falling temperatures and wind.
Temperature forecasts show below-freezing conditions dominating much of the week, with brief periods above freezing possible Friday and Sunday. Many locations, including Cincinnati, Dayton, Columbus, and Springfield, are expected to spend extended periods in the 20s and lower 30s, limiting melting once snow begins.
For commuters, students, and evening travelers, the Friday evening commute poses the greatest concern, particularly for those traveling on high-speed corridors and rural roads where treatment may be limited.
Residents are encouraged to monitor updates from weather.gov/iln, adjust travel plans if possible, and use caution when driving late Friday and overnight. Small changes in timing or temperature could significantly affect road conditions.
