Columbus, OH – Ohio is gearing up for a complex stretch of winter weather from December 18–24, with NOAA’s long-range outlook showing above-normal precipitation across the state and temperatures ranging from near-normal in central and northern regions to slightly above-normal in the south. This combination increases the potential for snow, freezing rain, sleet, and mixed precipitation leading into Christmas Eve.
According to NOAA, northern Ohio—including Cleveland, Toledo, Sandusky, and the Lake Erie shoreline—sits closest to the cooler temperature anomalies. This region is most likely to see accumulating snow, with lake enhancement possible at times. Snow chances increase December 20–23, with bursts of heavier snowfall reducing visibility along I-90 and the Ohio Turnpike.
Central Ohio—including Columbus, Mansfield, Delaware, and Zanesville—falls in the band with the highest risk of freezing rain. Temperatures are expected to hover near freezing during early phases of storms, allowing moisture aloft to fall as sleet or light ice before transitioning to rain. This risk is greatest from December 19–21, when overnight lows drop below freezing.
Southern Ohio—including Cincinnati, Dayton, Portsmouth, and Athens—leans warmer at the onset of systems, favoring cold rain for much of the week. However, colder air flowing in from the northwest late in the period may allow precipitation to end as wet snow close to Christmas Eve.
Major travel routes—including I-70, I-71, I-75, I-77, and U.S. 23—may experience slick spots, icy patches, and widespread slowdowns, especially December 21–24 when impacts appear strongest.
