Columbus, Ohio – A brief break from the rain will end tonight as a strong cold front brings another round of showers and possible flooding across the Ohio Valley through Monday night.
According to the National Weather Service Ohio River Forecast Center, 48-hour rainfall totals are expected to reach 0.75 to 2.00 inches in eastern Ohio, with lighter amounts under 0.50 inches in the west. The front arrives late Sunday night and will persist into Monday, renewing concerns for elevated river levels and minor flooding—particularly in the western portions of the state.
Cities like Zanesville, Athens, and Steubenville could see heavier downpours and brief localized flooding. In the west, areas near Dayton and Lima remain under observation, though widespread flooding is not forecast at this time. Elevated river gauges are already being monitored, especially along the Scioto and Muskingum rivers.
Drivers should be cautious during the Monday morning commute, especially on U.S. Route 33 and I-70 east of Columbus. Residents are urged to clear storm drains and monitor local alerts as conditions may change rapidly.
Rain chances decrease Tuesday, but additional advisories may be issued if river levels rise faster than expected.
