Ohio – Gray skies hang low as cold air presses down early, numbing fingers and stiffening faces within moments. The morning feels heavy and still, with temperatures locked in the single digits across central Ohio, reminding drivers and pedestrians that winter still has a firm grip.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, temperatures near six degrees were reported early around Columbus, with calm winds keeping the cold pooled near the surface. While no winter advisories are posted, the cold is intense enough to create travel concerns where moisture remains on roads, especially before clouds thin later this morning.
Travel impacts are subtle but real. Any damp pavement from earlier snowmelt can flash-freeze, especially on bridges and ramps along I-70, I-71, and I-670. Drivers should watch for sudden slick patches during early errands and allow extra stopping distance.
Skies gradually clear as the day goes on, but relief is limited. Highs struggle to reach the mid-20s, keeping conditions firmly in February territory. Tonight turns sharply colder again, with lows dropping near eight degrees under mostly clear skies.
The pattern begins to shift Monday. Afternoon temperatures climb into the low 30s with partial sunshine, easing the bite. By Tuesday, a noticeable warm-up arrives as south winds pull milder air into Ohio. Highs jump into the low 40s, accelerating snowmelt during the day and raising renewed concerns for nighttime refreezing.
Midweek stays seasonably cool. Highs settle into the mid-30s Wednesday and low 30s Thursday, with mostly dry conditions continuing. Longer-range trends hint at above-normal temperatures late next week, signaling a broader February thaw across the Midwest despite lingering cold mornings.
Heading out early? Bundle up, slow down on bridges, and tell us how conditions look where you are this morning.
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Columbus, OH
Today: Gradual clearing, high near 24°F
Monday: Partly sunny, high near 33°F
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 43°F
Wednesday: Partly sunny, high near 35°F
Thursday: Mostly cloudy, high near 32°F
