Columbus, Ohio – A renewed surge of Arctic cold is expected to grip Ohio starting Thursday, bringing the threat of subzero wind chills, hazardous travel, and periodic snow through the following Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, much of Ohio is expected to experience below-normal temperatures during the Jan. 15–21 window as a broad cold pattern settles across the eastern Midwest. Precipitation is projected to remain near normal, but persistent cold will increase the risk of icy roads even with minor snowfall.
Northern Ohio, including Toledo, Sandusky, and Cleveland, faces the greatest risk for dangerous wind chills during overnight and early morning hours. Wind chills could dip below zero at times, raising concerns for frostbite and stressing heating systems. Slick travel conditions may develop quickly along Interstate 90, Interstate 75, and U.S. 20 if snow or lake-enhanced flurries occur.
Central Ohio, including Columbus, Newark, and Delaware, is also expected to see temperatures fall well below seasonal averages. Morning commutes along Interstate 70 and State Route 315 could be impacted by refreezing each night, even where snowfall remains light. In southern Ohio, cities such as Cincinnati, Chillicothe, and Portsmouth may avoid the coldest readings but will still contend with a prolonged stretch of sharply colder weather.
Residents are urged to prepare by checking furnaces, insulating exposed pipes, and keeping emergency kits in vehicles. Limiting outdoor exposure during overnight hours will be important, especially for vulnerable populations and outdoor workers.
Cold-related advisories may be issued as the pattern becomes clearer, with additional updates likely as the Arctic air settles into the region late next week.
