Columbus, Ohio – A clear shift toward milder conditions is expected across Ohio by Thursday as temperatures climb above freezing, setting off a mid-February thaw that could quickly change road conditions and daily travel statewide.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, the 8–14 day outlook valid from Friday, February 13 through Thursday, February 19 favors above-normal temperatures across most of Ohio. Daytime highs are expected to rise into the mid to upper 30s by Thursday and hold into next week, accelerating snowmelt on roads, sidewalks, and parking lots.
Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Dayton, Toledo, and Akron all fall within the warmer-than-average signal, with even northern Ohio trending milder than seasonal norms. Overnight lows are also expected to moderate closer to freezing, reducing prolonged cold but increasing the risk of refreezing where meltwater remains after sunset.
Precipitation probabilities trend near to slightly above normal during this period, opening the door for rain or a rain-snow mix as warmer air pushes into the Ohio Valley. The Ohio Department of Transportation notes that major routes including I-70, I-71, I-75, I-80, and I-90 could see slushy conditions, standing water, and slick spots during the morning and evening commute windows, particularly on bridges and overpasses.
The milder pattern is expected to persist into the middle of next week. Residents should stay alert for updated advisories, as additional short-term alerts may be issued as precipitation timing and refreeze risks become clearer across Ohio.
