Columbus, Ohio – Blue skies and comfortable temperatures are giving central Ohio a brief break this Sunday afternoon, but a soaking round of rain is rapidly moving onto the radar. By tonight, umbrellas may become essential as a storm system pushes toward the region with heavy rainfall and localized flooding concerns.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, showers and thunderstorms are expected to expand across central Ohio Sunday afternoon through Monday morning. Forecasters warn that some storms could produce heavy rainfall, and flooding may develop in locations that receive repeated rounds of rain.
The forecast for Columbus highlights just how significant this event could become. Rain chances increase to 100 percent Sunday night, with rainfall totals between 1 and 2 inches possible. Additional showers and thunderstorms continue Monday, when rain chances remain at 70 percent.
Meteorologists are now tracking a corridor of moisture capable of producing periods of steady rain and embedded thunderstorms. Some storms may also generate gusty winds Sunday evening, although flooding remains the primary concern.
Drivers along Interstate 70, Interstate 71, Interstate 270 and U.S. Route 33 should prepare for wet pavement and reduced visibility beginning later today. Conditions may deteriorate quickly after sunset as rainfall intensity increases. Low-lying roads, underpasses and poor-drainage areas will be most vulnerable to standing water.
Plan extra travel time if heading out Sunday evening or during the Monday morning commute. Never drive through flooded roadways, even if water appears shallow.
The good news arrives Tuesday. Sunshine returns with a high near 79 degrees, followed by another pleasant day Wednesday with temperatures around 80 degrees.
Looking ahead, the broader pattern supports warmer-than-normal conditions across Ohio later next week, bringing a more summer-like feel after this wet start to the workweek.
More weather alerts could be issued if rainfall rates increase. Are you seeing rain yet in your neighborhood around Columbus?
Five Day Forecast for Columbus, Ohio
Sunday: Mostly sunny. High near 82°F.
Sunday Night: Showers and possible thunderstorms. Low around 65°F. Rain chance 100%. Rainfall totals between 1 and 2 inches possible.
Monday: Showers likely with possible thunderstorms. High near 78°F. Rain chance 70%.
Monday Night: Chance of showers before early evening. Low around 59°F. Rain chance 30%.
Tuesday: Sunny. High near 79°F.
Wednesday: Sunny. High near 80°F.
