Columbus, Ohio – Central Ohio heads into the first weekend of October with a dose of summer-like heat instead of fall chill. Saturday and Sunday could push highs into the mid-80s, setting the stage for sunny conditions across the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, temperatures will climb steadily starting Friday, topping out near 85 degrees by Saturday afternoon. Skies remain clear through the weekend, keeping travel smooth along major corridors like I-70, I-71, and U.S. 33. The stretch of warmth offers prime weather for outdoor plans, from Buckeye football tailgates to early Halloween decorating.
Friday brings mostly sunny skies and a high of 83, with calm southeast breezes under 10 mph. Saturday’s sunshine will be stronger, pushing highs to 85. Lows dip into the 50s each night, creating crisp mornings before the heat builds again in the afternoons.
The dry spell continues through Monday with highs still in the low to mid-80s, well above seasonal averages for October. Conditions won’t change until Tuesday, when scattered showers return to central Ohio, bringing cooler air and a chance of damp commutes.
Residents should take advantage of this warm window to finish outdoor projects, prepare yards for Halloween displays, and enjoy safe, clear driving conditions. Hydrate and dress light for daytime activities, as sun exposure will feel more like late summer than fall.
This unusual October warmth won’t last long. Rain chances grow early next week, signaling a return to more typical autumn weather.
Five-Day Forecast for Columbus, Ohio
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high 81.
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high 83.
- Saturday: Sunny, high 85.
- Sunday: Sunny, high 85.
- Monday: Mostly sunny, high 84.