Ohio greets the morning under a cold February sky, with quiet air settling over central Ohio.
The chill feels sharp, especially before sunrise, as winter holds its ground.
Early temperatures near 14°F sit under calm winds, producing wind chills close to single digits, according to the National Weather Service in Wilmington. Sidewalks and pavement remain dry, but cold surfaces feel slick to the touch. Drivers should allow extra time as vehicles warm slowly and tire pressure runs low.
Clouds increase through the morning, though precipitation stays away. Afternoon temperatures rise toward 32°F, offering limited relief. Even with sunshine filtered by clouds, the cold lingers well into the day.
By Tuesday, conditions begin to shift. Southerly winds help push highs into the mid-40s, creating a noticeable thaw. Snow piles soften, and runoff may refreeze after sunset, raising the risk of flash freezing on untreated roads and bridges.
Meteorologists are tracking a weak system Tuesday night into Wednesday. While widespread snow is not expected, light snow or a rain-snow mix remains possible, especially as temperatures hover near freezing. Any brief bursts could reduce visibility and create isolated slick spots during the Wednesday commute.
Midweek stays mostly cloudy and seasonable. Highs settle into the mid-30s, with flurries possible at times. Travel impacts appear minor but should be monitored closely as conditions change quickly after sunset.
Looking toward the 6–10 day outlook, a broader warming trend takes shape across the Midwest and Ohio Valley. Temperatures trend above normal for mid-February by late week and into next week, signaling a gradual shift toward early hints of spring.
Five-Day Outlook for Columbus:
- Today: Cold, increasing clouds, high near 32°F
- Tuesday: Milder, partly sunny, high near 44°F
- Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, slight snow chance, high near 35°F
- Thursday: Mostly cloudy, high near 32°F
- Friday: Partly sunny, high near 35°F
