Ohio – Frost coats windshields across central Ohio this morning as breath hangs in the air and pavement feels brittle underfoot. Temperatures sit in the mid-20s around Columbus, and while skies stay quiet early, winter is far from finished.
Highs climb into the mid-40s later today as clouds thicken. Roads remain dry for now, but melting followed by a sharp temperature drop tonight raises concern for flash freezing. According to the National Weather Service, northwest winds turn temperatures back below freezing this evening, allowing damp spots to glaze quickly after dark.
Wednesday stays mostly cloudy and colder, with highs only in the mid-30s. While widespread snow is not expected locally, nearby systems moving through the Great Lakes keep flurries and light snow close enough to watch. Even brief flakes can reduce visibility and slick untreated roads, especially during early commutes.
Thursday brings little change. Cloud cover holds firm, highs hover near the mid-30s, and lows dip into the low 20s. Drivers should remain cautious on bridges and shaded streets, where ice can linger longer than expected. Plan extra time if traveling after sunset.
By Friday, a subtle shift begins. Sunshine returns and highs edge toward the upper 30s. That warming trend strengthens into Valentine’s Day weekend, with temperatures pushing into the low 40s. Latest NOAA 6–10 day outlooks favor above-normal temperatures into early next week, hinting at a broader thaw across the Midwest as Great Lakes ice coverage slowly retreats.
For now, winter still controls the day-to-day feel. Keep coats handy, slow down on cold pavement, and stay alert for changing road conditions.
How cold did it feel outside your door this morning?
Five-Day Outlook for Columbus
• Today: Increasing clouds, high near 45
• Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, high near 35
• Thursday: Mostly cloudy, colder, high near 34
• Friday: Mostly sunny, high near 38
• Saturday: Partly sunny, milder, high near 43
