Columbus, Ohio – Slick interstates and strong wind gusts could disrupt travel across Ohio beginning Thursday, Feb. 26, as a wetter late-winter pattern raises the risk for freezing rain and high winds through Monday, March 2.
According to NOAA’s 6- to 10-day outlook issued Friday, above-normal precipitation is favored across the Ohio Valley during the Thursday-to-Monday stretch. With temperatures trending near seasonal averages, brief drops toward 32 degrees may allow freezing rain to develop, particularly overnight and during early morning commutes.
Statewide impacts may focus along I-70 from Columbus to Dayton and I-75 from Cincinnati through Toledo. Elevated ramps and bridges over the Scioto and Maumee rivers could ice first if light accumulation develops. In Cleveland and along the Lake Erie shoreline, fluctuating surface temperatures may cause precipitation to shift between rain and freezing rain depending on wind direction and lake influence.
Wind risk increases late in the period, particularly Sunday into Monday. Gusts between 45 and 55 mph are possible across northern Ohio, the I-80 corridor and exposed areas along Lake Erie. Strong winds combined with saturated soil could down tree limbs and lead to scattered power outages.
Residents should secure outdoor items, charge electronic devices and allow extra travel time during peak icing windows. The unsettled pattern continues through March 2, and additional advisories may be issued across the Buckeye State.
