COLUMBUS, Ohio – Central Ohio drivers could face wet roads and reduced visibility through Friday as rounds of showers and storms continue. The National Weather Service warns that heavy rain could cause ponding on highways, including I-71 and I-70, during peak travel hours. Motorists are urged to slow down, keep headlights on, and watch for sudden slowdowns.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, storms may bring rainfall totals between a quarter and three-quarters of an inch through Friday afternoon. Gusty winds and isolated thunder will add to the hazards, especially for Franklin, Delaware, and Fairfield counties. Conditions improve by the weekend, but commuters should prepare for delays until then.
Columbus will see temperatures holding near the mid-70s through Friday before drier, cooler air moves in. By Saturday, skies turn mostly sunny with highs in the upper 70s. Sunday brings the warmest stretch of the weekend, reaching the low 80s, but lower humidity will help it feel comfortable.
Residents should charge devices, secure outdoor furniture, and allow extra time for morning and evening commutes until the storm system moves east. Outdoor events planned for Thursday and Friday should be ready with rain shelters and alternate arrangements.
The storm threat eases Friday night, with a more settled fall pattern expected into next week. Forecasters caution that more rain systems could develop by early October.
Five-Day Forecast for Columbus, Ohio
- Wednesday: Showers and storms likely, high 74, low 63.
- Thursday: Showers possible, high 76, low 60.
- Friday: Chance of storms, high 77, low 57.
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high 78, low 56.
- Sunday: Sunny, warmer, high 82, low 59.
