Columbus, Ohio – A milder air mass building across the Ohio Valley ahead of St. Patrick’s Day will push much of Ohio and West Virginia toward rain during daylight hours, but nighttime cooling could still flip precipitation to wet snow between March 11 and March 17.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, both states remain within a 40-50% probability zone for above-normal precipitation during the 8-14 day period. Temperatures are projected to trend near to slightly above seasonal averages overall. That warmer pattern favors rainfall across lower elevations, though marginal overnight readings may still support rain-to-snow transitions, especially in higher terrain.
In Columbus, Dayton and Cincinnati, daytime highs in the 40s and low 50s should keep most precipitation liquid. However, if steadier precipitation lingers after sunset and temperatures dip into the lower 30s, brief wet snow could mix in, particularly on grassy areas and untreated secondary roads. Across West Virginia, including Charleston and Morgantown, valley locations are more likely to see mainly rain.
Higher elevations along Interstate 64, Interstate 77 and Interstate 79, as well as communities in the eastern mountains near Snowshoe, face the greatest chance of minor overnight accumulation. Reduced visibility is possible in heavier bursts regardless of precipitation type.
Drivers across Ohio and West Virginia should monitor overnight and early morning road conditions where temperatures hover near freezing. Even brief wet snow can create slick spots on bridges and elevated highways. Additional updates are expected as the March 11-17 window approaches and system timing becomes clearer.
