Ohio – Gray skies hang low this morning as colder air pushes into the state, flipping the weather script quickly. What starts as rain for many will transition to snow by afternoon, with visibility dropping at times as flakes begin to fall.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, snow showers are expected later today and this evening across central and southern Ohio. Accumulations remain light for now, generally under an inch, but brief reductions in visibility could impact the evening commute, especially around Columbus, Wilmington, and nearby communities.
Temperatures fall sharply tonight as northwest winds increase. Wind chills dip into the single digits by early Thursday morning, making untreated roads and sidewalks prone to flash freezing. Drivers should watch bridges, overpasses, and secondary roads where moisture lingers.
Thursday brings a short break. Skies brighten, but cold air remains locked in. Highs struggle to reach the mid-20s, and the wind keeps it feeling much colder. Any melting during the day could refreeze again after sunset.
Attention then turns to Friday. Meteorologists are tracking a system capable of producing accumulating snowfall across parts of central and southern Ohio. Several inches are possible in localized areas if snow bands set up, though exact totals remain uncertain. Travel impacts could increase quickly if snow develops during peak hours.
The cold pattern does not ease this weekend. Additional snow chances linger Saturday, followed by bitter mornings Sunday into early next week. Wind chills near or below zero are possible during early morning hours.
Looking ahead to Jan. 19–23, NOAA outlooks favor continued cold across the Ohio Valley, with periodic chances for snow as storm systems pass through.
Plan extra travel time today and tonight. How fast did temperatures drop in your neighborhood?
Five Day Weather Outlook for Columbus, Ohio
• Today: Rain changing to snow. High near 44.
• Thursday: Mostly sunny, very cold. High near 26.
• Friday: Snow likely. High near 36.
• Saturday: Chance of snow. High near 30.
• Sunday: Partly sunny and cold. High near 21.
