Ohio – Light snow swirls across open fields while wind rattles bare trees, pushing bitter cold straight through heavy coats. Even small changes outside feel sharp, and the danger builds quickly after sunrise.
A Winter Storm Warning and Extreme Cold Warning remain in effect across central and southern Ohio, including Wilmington and the Columbus metro. Light snow and blowing flurries continue this morning, but the bigger threat comes from plunging temperatures and biting wind. Wind chills hover near 20 degrees below zero in exposed areas, making conditions feel dangerous within minutes.
According to the National Weather Service, snow accumulations remain light, generally under an inch, but roads stay slick due to falling temperatures. Flash freezing remains a concern as daytime melting refreezes quickly. Bridges, ramps, and untreated roads along I-70, I-71, and Route 23 remain especially hazardous.
Drivers should slow down and plan extra travel time. Visibility may briefly drop in blowing snow, especially in rural stretches. Pedestrians face frostbite risk on exposed skin in less than 30 minutes. Dressing in layers, covering faces, and limiting time outdoors remain critical.
Clouds gradually break later today, allowing sunshine to return. That clearing works against temperatures, however, letting heat escape rapidly. Actual air temperatures drop below zero tonight, with wind chills sinking even lower into Tuesday morning.
Tuesday brings sunshine but little relief. Highs struggle to reach the teens, while winds keep the cold locked in. Conditions slowly moderate by Wednesday and Thursday, though January’s grip remains firm. By late week, highs recover into the upper teens and low 20s.
Looking ahead, the 6–10 day outlook shows drier conditions returning with gradual warming after this arctic blast loosens its hold.
If you must travel, carry an emergency kit and keep your phone charged. How cold did it feel stepping outside where you live?
Five-Day Outlook for Columbus, OH
• Today: Chance of snow, blowing snow, high near 15°F
• Tuesday: Partly sunny, very cold, high near 18°F
• Wednesday: Partly sunny, cold, high near 11°F
• Thursday: Partly sunny, cold, high near 12°F
• Friday: Partly sunny, slowly moderating, high near 11°F
