Columbus, OH – A brief period of freezing rain may develop early Tuesday morning across portions of central and southern Ohio, potentially creating slick spots during the morning commute, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) Wilmington. While rainfall will quickly transition to plain rain after sunrise, temperatures at the onset may be cold enough for a light glaze of ice to form on exposed surfaces.
NWS Wilmington says rain will spread into the region late Monday night into early Tuesday. As precipitation arrives, temperatures in several counties— including Union, Delaware, Madison, Franklin, Licking, Fayette, Pickaway, Fairfield, Ross, Hocking, Pike, and Scioto—will hover near or just below the freezing mark. This may allow freezing rain to develop briefly before warming takes hold.
A light glaze is possible on bridges, overpasses, elevated decks, and untreated secondary roads, especially between 5 a.m. and 8 a.m., when the coldest surface temperatures overlap with arriving precipitation. Even small amounts of ice can create hazardous driving conditions, particularly along major commute routes through Downtown Columbus, Delaware, London, Lancaster, Chillicothe, Logan, Waverly, and Portsmouth.
Forecasters emphasize that the freezing rain will be short-lived, with temperatures rising above freezing shortly after the precipitation becomes steadier. However, those traveling early should allow extra time, reduce speed, and stay alert for potential slick patches.
Once temperatures climb into the mid-30s, the risk of icing will diminish quickly, and widespread rain will continue through the day.
Residents across central and southern Ohio are encouraged to monitor updates overnight in case temperatures trend a degree or two colder than expected, which could expand the icing hazard.
