Prolonged Arctic cold will continue across southwest and central Ohio this week, bringing dangerous wind chills near major travel corridors.
According to the National Weather Service Wilmington, Ohio office, overnight low temperatures near or below zero are expected through the end of the week, accompanied by daily minimum wind chill values ranging from -10°F to -25°F. Daytime highs are forecast to remain mostly in the teens, with some locations struggling to rise above single digits through Friday.
Communities including Cincinnati, Dayton, Columbus, Springfield, and Wilmington are expected to experience the coldest conditions during overnight and early morning hours. Travel along major routes such as I-75, I-70, I-71, and US-40 may be impacted as exposed drivers face dangerous cold during commutes.
While widespread snowfall is not expected, the persistent cold presents hazards of its own. Wind chills this low can cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes, particularly when winds increase during the overnight period. Motorists who become stranded could face life-threatening conditions without adequate winter preparedness.
The National Weather Service recommends dressing in multiple layers, covering exposed skin, and limiting time outdoors when possible. Drivers are encouraged to keep vehicles winter-ready, ensure batteries are charged, and carry emergency supplies such as blankets, gloves, and phone chargers, especially for overnight travel.
This stretch of cold is expected to last through Friday, with only gradual moderation possible later in the weekend. Even as daytime temperatures improve slightly, overnight lows are forecast to remain cold enough to maintain subzero wind chills.
Residents, commuters, and outdoor workers are urged to continue monitoring updated forecasts and take cold-weather precautions seriously during this extended Arctic period.
