Cincinnati, Ohio – An extended stretch of dangerous winter cold is underway across southwest Ohio, northern Kentucky, and southeast Indiana, with life-threatening wind chills expected through Monday morning. The most severe conditions arrive late tonight and persist into Sunday, creating serious risks for anyone outdoors without protection.
Wind chills could plunge as low as 17 below zero at times, especially late tonight into early Sunday, as strong northwest winds combine with bitterly cold air. Even brief exposure may lead to frostbite or hypothermia. Conditions remain harsh through Sunday night before slowly easing late Monday morning.
According to the National Weather Service office in Wilmington, a Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect from 7 p.m. this evening through 11 a.m. Monday. The advisory covers much of southwest and central Ohio, including Hamilton, Butler, Warren, Clermont, Montgomery, Greene, and Franklin counties, along with nearby areas of northern Kentucky and southeast Indiana. Cities impacted include Cincinnati, Dayton, Columbus, Hamilton, Middletown, Springfield, Wilmington, and surrounding communities.
Travelers on I-71, I-74, I-75, I-275, and I-70 should be prepared for extreme cold during overnight and early morning hours. According to emergency management officials, residents should avoid unnecessary outdoor activity, dress in layers, and cover all exposed skin with hats, gloves, and face coverings. High-profile vehicles may also encounter gusty winds, increasing discomfort and exposure risk during breakdowns.
Residents are urged to bring pets indoors, check on elderly neighbors, and protect exposed pipes. Heating demand will remain high through the weekend, so space heaters should be used cautiously and kept clear of flammable materials. Anyone without reliable heat should seek warming options before temperatures fall further.
Cold conditions linger into Monday morning before a gradual moderation begins midweek.
