Ohio starts the day locked in a hard winter grip as frigid air bites exposed skin and breath fogs instantly. Pavement looks dry in spots, but the cold turns any leftover moisture into hidden ice.
A Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect across central and southwest Ohio through late morning. According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, wind chills have dipped as low as 20 degrees below zero in parts of the region. Even brief exposure can cause frostbite in under 30 minutes.
In Columbus, temperatures hover near 5 degrees with wind chills closer to minus 15 early this morning. Roads may appear clear, but flash freezing remains a concern, especially on bridges and ramps along I-70, I-71, and Route 315. Drivers should slow down and leave extra space, even where salt appears to have worked.
The cold does not ease quickly. Sunshine arrives later today, but highs struggle to reach the mid-teens. Another bitter night follows, with lows below zero in outlying suburbs. Winds relax slightly, though the air remains sharply cold.
By Friday, a weak disturbance may spark isolated snow showers during the afternoon. Accumulation looks minimal, but even light flakes can refreeze after sunset. Saturday stays dry and mostly sunny, yet highs barely reach the low teens, keeping winter stress on people, pets, and pipes.
Sunday offers modest improvement as highs approach the upper teens. Even then, temperatures remain well below normal for late January. Meteorologists warn the prolonged cold increases risks of frozen pipes and heating issues across central Ohio.
Residents are urged to dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and check on vulnerable neighbors. Keep pets indoors and allow faucets to drip during the coldest nights.
Five Day Outlook for Columbus, Ohio:
- Today: Partly sunny, high near 16, dangerous wind chills
- Friday: Isolated snow showers, high near 16
- Saturday: Mostly sunny and cold, high near 12
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, high near 17
- Monday: Mostly cloudy, high near 24
