Ohio – A hazy sky is hanging over central Ohio late Monday morning, and that smoky look isn’t just cosmetic. Canadian wildfire smoke is lowering air quality across the Columbus metro today while meteorologists already have their eyes on a stronger storm system expected to sweep through Tuesday. The combination of poor air quality now and a growing severe weather threat tomorrow makes this a week to stay weather-aware.
According to the National Weather Service and the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission, an Air Quality Alert remains in effect from 6 a.m. until 9 p.m. Monday for Franklin, Delaware, Fairfield, and Licking counties. Fine particle pollution is expected to reach levels considered unhealthy for sensitive groups. Children, older adults, and anyone with asthma or other respiratory conditions should limit prolonged outdoor activity.
Monday remains warm despite the haze, with highs reaching 87 degrees under areas of smoke. Conditions stay quiet through much of today, but meteorologists are tracking a strong cold front that arrives Tuesday. Showers and thunderstorms become likely during the afternoon, with an 80% chance of rain. The National Weather Service’s Hazardous Weather Outlook notes that some storms could become severe Tuesday afternoon, with damaging wind gusts as the primary threat. Heavy rainfall, localized flooding, hail, and an isolated tornado are also possible with the strongest storms.
Motorists should prepare for deteriorating travel conditions along Interstate 70, Interstate 71, Interstate 270, U.S. 23, and U.S. 33 during Tuesday afternoon and evening. Heavy rain could reduce visibility, while ponding on roadways may slow traffic. Travelers flying through John Glenn Columbus International Airport should monitor airline updates as thunderstorms could affect flight schedules.
Behind the front, Wednesday brings a refreshing change with sunny skies and a high near 77 degrees. Sunshine continues Thursday with highs around 80 degrees, offering a welcome break from the humidity.
Long-range outlooks continue to favor above-normal temperatures returning later next week, signaling that summer warmth will quickly rebuild after the brief midweek cooldown.
If you’re spending time outdoors today, consider reducing strenuous activity until air quality improves. Then keep an eye on Tuesday’s radar as storms approach. Are you noticing smoky skies or reduced visibility in your neighborhood?
Five-Day Forecast for Columbus, Ohio
- Monday: Areas of smoke with sunshine. High 87°F. Air Quality Alert until 9 p.m.
- Tuesday: Showers and thunderstorms developing during the afternoon. High 86°F. 80% chance of rain.
- Tuesday Night: Showers and thunderstorms likely early, then decreasing. Low 65°F. Rain chance 60%.
- Wednesday: Sunny and cooler. High 77°F.
- Thursday: Sunny. High 80°F.
