Columbus, Ohio – A colder and increasingly active winter pattern is expected to develop across Ohio as the New Year approaches, with strong signals for accumulating snow, icy travel, and repeated disruptions from Dec 27 through Jan 9.
Large-scale atmospheric patterns favor frequent storm systems tracking through the Ohio Valley and Great Lakes during this period. According to the National Weather Service, colder air is expected to be readily available across the region, allowing many systems to produce snow across much of the state. Northern and central Ohio, including the Columbus, Toledo, and Cleveland areas, currently show the strongest signal for measurable snowfall, while southern counties may see occasional mixing during warmer system phases.
Snowfall is expected to occur in several rounds rather than one prolonged event, increasing the likelihood of recurring travel slowdowns. Major corridors such as I-70, I-71, I-75, I-77, and I-80 could see periods of snow-covered roads and reduced visibility, particularly overnight and during early morning hours. Brief temperature drops behind passing systems may also lead to flash-freeze concerns where roads remain wet.
Lake-effect snow may impact far northern Ohio at times, especially east of Cleveland along the Lake Erie shoreline, adding to localized travel hazards. Gusty winds with stronger systems could produce blowing snow and isolated power outages if snow accumulates on trees and power lines.
The Ohio Department of Transportation urges motorists to allow extra travel time during the New Year holiday period and to remain alert for rapidly changing road conditions. While quieter breaks are expected between systems, the overall setup supports a snowy and potentially disruptive start to 2026 across Columbus and much of Ohio.
