COLUMBUS, Ohio – A warm, sunny start to the weekend will give way to strong winds and fall storms by Sunday, bringing a dramatic shift to central Ohio’s weather pattern. The National Weather Service in Wilmington has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook for the region, warning of gusts up to 45 mph and the potential for heavy rain and isolated thunderstorms.
According to NWS meteorologists, a strong cold front will sweep through Sunday afternoon, producing widespread showers and gusty winds along I-70 and I-71. While severe weather is not expected, brief downpours and localized flooding are possible in poor-drainage areas. Drivers should prepare for reduced visibility and strong crosswinds, especially on elevated roadways and bridges.
Saturday will be the best day for outdoor plans, with highs near 83°F and plenty of sunshine before clouds build by evening. Winds will increase overnight as the front approaches from the west. Sunday’s highs will reach near 69°F before temperatures fall quickly behind the boundary. Rain will taper off by early Monday, leaving cooler, drier air in place for the new workweek.
Residents are urged to secure outdoor Halloween decorations, lawn furniture, and trash bins before the gusty conditions develop. Farmers and gardeners should also prepare for falling temperatures early next week, signaling the start of a more typical late-October pattern. Despite the brief stormy spell, the region looks dry and seasonably cool by midweek with crisp mornings and sunny afternoons—perfect for pumpkin patches and fall festivals.
Five-Day Forecast for Columbus, OH:
Fri: 69/52 – Increasing clouds; calm winds.
Sat: 83/61 – Mostly sunny; warm and breezy late.
Sun: 69/44 – Showers, gusty winds near 40–45 mph.
Mon: 64/49 – Sunny and cooler; light breeze.
Tue: 64/42 – Partly cloudy; crisp fall day.
