Columbus, OH – A cold, gray start greets central Ohio this morning, but the calm won’t last long. Forecasters are warning of a powerful midweek storm system expected to bring gusty winds, rain, and accumulating snow — followed by an Arctic blast that could push wind chills below zero by the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, winds will strengthen Wednesday, with gusts up to 35–45 mph possible as rain spreads across the region. By Wednesday night, temperatures drop sharply, turning rain into wet snow, and several rounds of light to moderate accumulation may develop through Friday.
The system will likely impact travel across I-70, I-71, and U.S. 33, with slick roads possible during the Thursday morning commute. Meteorologists note that temperatures near freezing and strong crosswinds could reduce visibility and create dangerous driving conditions — especially in open areas and elevated roadways.
By the weekend, the real cold sets in. Arctic air will settle over Ohio and Indiana, keeping highs near 20°F and lows dipping into the single digits. Wind chills will feel even colder, possibly below zero Saturday and Sunday morning.
Forecasters say this is just the start of a longer winter pattern expected to dominate the Great Lakes and Ohio Valley from Dec. 11–17, with additional snow chances and subfreezing air in play.
Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, prepare for icy travel, and check on neighbors as temperatures fall rapidly late this week.
Five-Day Outlook (Columbus, OH):
- Tuesday: Mostly cloudy, high 39°F.
- Wednesday: Rain, turning to snow, high 43°F.
- Thursday: Snow possible, high 32°F.
- Friday: Snow likely, high 30°F.
- Saturday: Very cold, high 22°F, lows in the single digits.
