COLUMBUS, Ohio – A sharp fall chill will bring patchy frost across much of central and western Ohio late tonight into early Friday, threatening outdoor plants and gardens. Temperatures are expected to dip into the mid-30s north of Interstate 70, with upper 30s farther south, enough for frost to form in calm, clear areas.
According to the National Weather Service office in Wilmington, frost will develop between 2 a.m. and 9 a.m. Friday, especially from Celina and Sidney through Columbus and Newark. The agency advises residents to protect sensitive vegetation or bring potted plants indoors to avoid damage. Even a light frost may harm uncovered flowers and late-season crops.
Motorists may also notice reduced visibility during the early commute Friday morning, particularly in low-lying and rural valleys where frost and shallow fog could combine. No weather advisories are currently posted, but the NWS says similar overnight lows are likely again this weekend as high pressure keeps skies clear.
Gardeners should cover plants with breathable material and disconnect outdoor hoses to prevent damage from the first brush of cold. Homeowners are encouraged to check outdoor thermostats, as more widespread freezes could arrive within the next week.
