Ohio’s spring warmth is peaking across Columbus, but a sharp shift is already lining up for the weekend. Sunshine and dry pavement dominate now, with temperatures climbing to 82°F this afternoon, setting the stage for a more active pattern within the next 24 hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, showers and thunderstorms develop after 8 a.m. Saturday, with rain chances surging to 90% and wind gusts reaching 29 mph . A few storms could turn strong by afternoon, with damaging wind as the primary concern across central and southwest Ohio.
Drivers along I-70, I-71, and Route 33 should expect changing conditions by midday Saturday. Brief heavy rain may reduce visibility and create slick stretches, especially in urban areas around downtown Columbus and Grove City. Keep headlights on and allow extra time for travel.
Rain lingers into early Sunday, but totals remain modest, generally under a half inch. Cooler air filters in quickly behind the system, dropping highs to around 55°F Sunday with a brisk west wind. By Sunday night, temperatures fall to near 34°F, raising concerns for patchy frost in outlying areas.
Monday brings sunshine but stays cool, with highs near 53°F before another rebound into the 70s by Tuesday. This swing from summer-like warmth to near-freezing nights could impact early gardens and outdoor plans.
Plan ahead for Saturday’s storms and secure loose outdoor items. Keep a jacket ready for the cooler air that follows.
Five Day Forecast for Columbus, Ohio:
Today: Mostly sunny, high near 82°F
Saturday: Showers and storms, high near 79°F
Sunday: Chance of showers early, high near 55°F
Monday: Sunny, high near 53°F
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 73°F
