A cold dawn settles over southern Ohio this morning — calm for now, but the pattern is about to shift fast. A pair of winter systems will slide through the Ohio Valley and Tri-State region, bringing gusty winds, light snow, and a sharp temperature drop by late week.
Meteorologists at the National Weather Service in Wilmington are tracking a windy Wednesday ahead, with gusts up to 45 mph possible across central and southwest Ohio. Scattered rain and snow showers will develop through the afternoon and evening, quickly turning slick as temperatures fall into the 20s by nightfall. Drivers on I-71, I-75, and I-74 should be alert for reduced visibility and freezing patches during the evening commute.
By Thursday night, a second system moves in — this one colder and more moisture-rich. Accumulating snow could impact travel Friday morning, especially north of Cincinnati and into central Ohio. Forecasters also warn of another wave of snow Saturday, potentially adding a fresh coating before Arctic air rushes in.
By the weekend, expect wind chills near or below zero, with highs struggling to reach the low 30s. The first true December freeze will lock in across Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky through early next week.
Five-Day Outlook for Cincinnati, OH
- Wednesday: Rain/snow mix, gusts to 40 mph, high 44°F, low 27°F.
- Thursday: Cloudy with snow chances, high 34°F, low 26°F.
- Friday: Snow likely early, high 37°F, low 20°F.
- Saturday: Cloudy, flurries possible, high 30°F, low 12°F.
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, cold, high 22°F, low 14°F.
