WILMINGTON, Ohio – The smell of damp leaves mixes with a sharp, brisk wind this Tuesday morning as southern Ohio begins its slide toward colder air. By Thursday night, many valleys and rural fields could dip to near freezing — the region’s first serious brush with frost this fall.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, a passing cold front will usher in drier air today, followed by gusty west winds up to 25 mph through Wednesday. That breeze will make for crisp, bright conditions but also set the stage for rapid nighttime cooling later this week. Lows are projected to reach the low 30s by early Friday, cold enough for patchy frost across much of southwest and central Ohio, and even parts of northern Kentucky and east-central Indiana.
Residents are encouraged to bring in sensitive plants, cover outdoor vegetation, and check vehicles and water lines ahead of the chill. Farmers and gardeners, especially along the I-71 corridor and rural areas of Clinton and Highland counties, may see light frost forming on open ground and rooftops before dawn Friday.
After the frosty start, sunshine will dominate Friday into Saturday, making for ideal fall cleanup and weekend drives. Highs rebound into the mid to upper 50s by Saturday and near 60s Sunday, though another chance of light rain may return to end the weekend. For now, this marks the clearest sign yet that early winter patterns are taking shape across the Ohio Valley.
Five-Day Forecast for Wilmington, OH:
Tue: 65/41 – Clouds early; clearing; breezy west wind.
Wed: 55/37 – Sunny, brisk; gusts to 20 mph.
Thu: 56/32 – Bright skies; frost risk late.
Fri: 57/37 – Mostly sunny; patchy early frost.
Sat: 57/42 – Partly sunny; light chill lingers.
