Ohio – Wind-driven flakes and mist swirl across central Ohio this morning, rattling road signs and glazing untreated pavement before sunrise. Tires hiss on damp asphalt, and exposed skin stings quickly as Arctic air grips Columbus to start 2026.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures hover near 22 degrees early, with wind chills near 5 degrees. Light snow and fog mix with patchy freezing rain in spots, especially before mid-morning. While accumulation stays light, even a thin glaze can create slick travel conditions.
Drivers across Columbus should expect trouble spots on bridges, ramps, and shaded roads. I-70, I-71, and I-270 may see brief slowdowns as crews treat icy patches. Side streets and parking lots remain the biggest concern, where flash freezing can occur after minor melting later today.
By afternoon, precipitation tapers, and skies brighten slightly. Highs climb into the mid-20s, though winds stay noticeable. Tonight turns quieter but colder. Any moisture left on pavement will refreeze quickly, renewing black ice risks after sunset.
Friday brings a break from active winter weather. Sunshine returns, and highs reach near 30 degrees. The weekend stays cold but mostly dry, with highs near 31 Saturday and Sunday. Clouds linger at times, keeping temperatures locked below freezing overnight.
Looking ahead, moderation begins early next week. Monday warms into the upper 30s, and by Tuesday and Wednesday, highs push into the 40s and low 50s. That warmer trend may bring rain chances midweek, ending this cold stretch.
For now, slow down early, increase following distance, and watch for sudden slick spots. Heading out this morning? Share what road conditions look like where you are.
Five-Day Outlook for Columbus, OH
- New Year’s Day: Light snow or freezing rain early; high near 26°F
- Friday: Mostly sunny; high near 30°F
- Saturday: Mostly cloudy; high near 31°F
- Sunday: Partly sunny; high near 31°F
- Monday: Partly sunny; high near 40°F
