Columbus, Ohio – Ohio is settling into a prolonged and punishing stretch of winter as Arctic air tightens its grip across the state, with signs pointing to dangerous cold lingering well into February. Temperatures are expected to plunge this weekend, with overnight lows dropping sharply statewide and colder pockets falling below zero, especially across northern and western Ohio.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, long-range outlooks from late January through mid-February strongly favor much below normal temperatures across the Midwest and Ohio Valley. This same Arctic pattern is responsible for extreme cold farther north, where parts of Minnesota are facing lows near minus 60 degrees, while reinforcing a persistent deep-freeze across Ohio.
The cold brings multiple hazards. Snow, sleet, and freezing rain are possible at times this weekend, creating slick travel on I-70, I-71, I-75, I-80, I-90, and secondary roadways. Rapid temperature drops also increase the risk of frost quakes, icy bridges, frozen pipes, and vehicle issues. Lake-effect snow remains a concern across northeast Ohio, where blowing snow and reduced visibility could further impact travel.
Looking ahead, only brief temperature moderation is possible, with no sustained warm-up likely before mid-February. Officials urge residents to limit outdoor exposure, protect plumbing, prepare vehicles for extreme cold, and closely monitor updates as additional winter weather advisories and cold alerts may be issued during this long-duration Arctic outbreak.
