COLUMBUS, OH – The first taste of winter weather continues across central Ohio this morning as light snow and near-freezing air create slick spots during the early commute. Drivers heading into Columbus and surrounding suburbs should expect reduced visibility and slippery untreated surfaces through mid-morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, Ohio, light snow began before dawn Thursday, shifting southeast through mid-morning before tapering off. While accumulations will remain minor — generally less than one inch — road temperatures are cold enough for fast freeze potential on bridges and side streets. Even a dusting could make travel hazardous on I-70, I-71, and Route 33 during peak hours.
By afternoon, skies gradually clear as drier air moves in, but the chill will linger. Temperatures will struggle to climb past 30°F, and northwest winds will add a biting wind chill in the upper teens. Conditions stay dry Friday and Saturday, though clouds build again by Sunday as another weak system approaches from the west.
Forecasters warn that colder air will deepen late Thursday night into early Friday, with wind chills near zero possible across parts of west-central and central Ohio. This Arctic influence signals the start of a prolonged early-December cold snap that could set the tone for next week’s weather pattern.
Five-Day Outlook (Columbus, OH)
- Thursday: Light snow early, gradual clearing. High 30°F.
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high 30°F.
- Saturday: Mostly cloudy, high 36°F.
- Sunday: Mostly cloudy, high 34°F.
- Monday: Partly cloudy, cold. High 31°F.
