Ohio – A calm, gray start quickly gives way to building warmth across Columbus this morning, but a volatile shift is already lining up that could bring severe storms by late Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, a hazardous weather outlook highlights the risk for strong to severe thunderstorms Sunday afternoon and evening. Damaging winds and large hail are the primary threats, especially after 2 p.m. as temperatures surge to near 82°F.
Skies turn partly sunny through the day, helping fuel instability across central Ohio. By late afternoon, storms begin to develop and track across the Columbus metro. Expect rapidly changing conditions along I-70, I-71, and I-270, where heavy rain could reduce visibility and create slick travel.
Rainfall totals may range between a quarter and half an inch, with higher amounts in stronger storms. Wind gusts could exceed 25 mph outside storms, then spike higher in thunderstorm cores. Secure loose outdoor items and prepare for brief power disruptions.
Storms continue into the evening before tapering early Monday. Cooler air follows quickly, dropping highs to around 48°F Monday with clearing skies.
That sharp cooldown deepens into early Tuesday, with lows near 29°F. Any leftover moisture could refreeze, creating isolated black ice during the morning commute. Use caution on bridges and untreated roads.
Sunshine returns Tuesday with highs near 55°F, followed by a gradual warm-up midweek.
This setup reflects a classic March clash—spring warmth colliding with late-season cold.
Are you seeing storms develop Sunday evening? Share your conditions with us.
Five Day Forecast for Columbus, Ohio
Sunday: Warm, storms late. High 82°F.
Monday: Clearing, cooler. High 48°F.
Tuesday: Mostly sunny. High 55°F.
Wednesday: Mostly cloudy. High 56°F.
Thursday: Chance of showers. High 70°F.
