Columbus, Ohio – Triple-digit heat index values will scorch central Ohio on Friday as a Heat Advisory continues through 8 p.m. — with storms likely to follow.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, afternoon highs will soar near 93°F in Columbus with humidity pushing “feels-like” temperatures into the low 100s. Isolated thunderstorms may develop after 1 p.m., growing more widespread by nightfall, especially along I-70 and across Franklin County.
Cities from Lancaster to Dayton, including Newark, Springfield, and Westerville, may see brief downpours, gusty winds, and localized street flooding. Drivers should use caution during the evening commute, especially on I-270 and U.S. 33, where visibility could drop quickly.
⚠️ Heat safety tips: Stay hydrated, limit outdoor work to early morning or late evening, and check on elderly neighbors and pets. Symptoms like dizziness or rapid heartbeat can signal heat exhaustion — move to a cool place and call for help if needed.
Weekend relief is in sight. Highs fall into the 80s Saturday and Sunday, though scattered showers and storms are expected both days, particularly Saturday night into early Sunday.
Next week brings a steadier warm pattern, but Monday and Tuesday offer drier skies with highs in the upper 80s to low 90s.
⛅ Five-Day Forecast: Columbus, OH
- Thursday (Today): High 93°F, chance of afternoon storms
- Friday: High 91°F, heat index near 100°F, evening storms possible
- Saturday: High 88°F, storms likely by evening
- Sunday: High 91°F, mostly sunny, storm chance late
- Monday: High 92°F, partly sunny, showers possible in afternoon
- Tuesday: High 87°F, mostly sunny, drier and cooler air moving in
