Columbus, Ohio – Slick stretches could develop on I-70, I-71 and I-75 before 8 a.m. Thursday as light overnight snow brushes parts of central and northern Ohio, but temperatures rising 15 to 20 degrees above seasonal averages will melt most accumulation before the midday commute.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, Ohio falls within a 40 to 50 percent above-normal precipitation zone through Tuesday. That wetter-than-average pattern spans much of the Midwest and Great Lakes, increasing the likelihood of multiple systems crossing the Buckeye State as February winds down.
In Columbus, where average highs this time of year sit in the upper 30s, afternoon temperatures next week may climb into the low to mid-50s. Cleveland and Toledo could see brief bursts of overnight snow or a rain-snow mix before daytime melting takes over, especially along I-90 and the Ohio Turnpike. Cincinnati and Dayton are more likely to see mainly rain as milder air pushes north during the day.
The broader outlook favors above-normal temperatures across much of the eastern United States, while cooler air lingers across parts of the northern Plains and West Coast. That contrast keeps storm systems active across the Midwest, supporting periodic rounds of precipitation.
Drivers should allow extra time during early morning travel, clear storm drains to reduce ponding and monitor ODOT updates for changing conditions. The milder stretch continues into early next week, though additional systems could still prompt advisories. Winter is loosening its grip across Ohio, but it has not fully stepped aside.
