Ohio Weather Alert: Winter Solstice Brings 28°F Freeze Today as Rain and Christmas Travel Risks Build Midweek

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Ohio – Frost clings to windshields and grass crunches underfoot this morning as winter arrives with a sharp edge. Temperatures sit below freezing, and wind chills hover in the low 20s. It feels quiet now, but conditions are already lining up for a messy shift before Christmas.

According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, temperatures climb into the mid-30s later today under sunshine. That warming trend continues Monday, but it comes with increasing clouds. Rain develops late Monday and becomes likely Monday night, with chances climbing above 70 percent. Wet pavement is expected along U.S. 68, State Route 73, and nearby rural roads during evening travel.

Cold mornings matter this time of year. Lows dip into the lower 20s again tonight, and any moisture left on roads could refreeze before sunrise. Bridges and shaded stretches may turn slick quickly. Drivers should slow down early and allow extra braking distance.

By Tuesday, milder air pushes in. Highs reach the mid-50s with lingering showers early. To be fair, snow is not expected locally, but this warm-after-cold pattern is an early winter signal. Models hint at colder air nearby later in the week, which keeps flash-freeze risks on the table after rain.

Looking toward Wednesday and Thursday, rain chances increase again as Christmas travel ramps up. Roads could stay wet, and visibility may drop during heavier showers. Plan extra time, check tires and wipers, and stay weather-aware if traveling.

Winter is just getting started, and conditions can change fast. How cold did it feel where you live this morning?

Five-Day Outlook for Wilmington, Ohio
Today: Sunny, high near 36.
Monday: Mostly cloudy, high near 45.
Tuesday: Slight chance of rain early, high near 54.
Wednesday: Cloudy, rain developing late, high near 53.
Christmas Day: Chance of rain, milder, high near 61.