CINCINNATI, Ohio – After a stretch of bright skies and comfortable fall days, southwest Ohio is gearing up for a soggy Saturday night. Showers and a few thunderstorms will arrive late in the weekend, followed by cooler, drier air that will settle in for Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, calm and sunny conditions will hold through Friday with highs near 70 degrees. That makes for ideal weather for outdoor activities, including football games, festivals, and trips along I-71 or I-75. However, the pleasant stretch ends quickly as a strong fall system sweeps in from the west late Saturday.
Rain chances climb sharply by late afternoon, and isolated thunderstorms could develop across Hamilton and Butler counties into Saturday night. Downpours may lead to brief ponding on roads and slower travel, particularly around downtown Cincinnati and along the Ohio River bridges. Residents should secure outdoor decorations and monitor local alerts, as a few storms may produce gusty winds and lightning.
The system clears by early Sunday, bringing a noticeable drop in temperatures. Highs will fall into the upper 60s, and skies will gradually clear by afternoon—perfect for fall walks, pumpkin patch visits, or catching up on weekend errands.
Early next week looks quieter, with sunshine and mild afternoons before another chance of rain returns Tuesday.
Five-Day Forecast for Cincinnati, OH:
Thu: 69/43 – Sunny and pleasant; light wind.
Fri: 71/53 – Increasing clouds; still dry.
Sat: 83/57 – Warm and breezy; evening rain and storms.
Sun: 67/43 – Morning showers, then clearing and cooler.
Mon: 68/49 – Sunny and mild; light breeze.