Columbus, Ohio – Drivers across central Ohio should brace for a soggy stretch as rounds of showers and thunderstorms settle in through midweek, bringing the risk of street flooding and lightning hazards during peak travel hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, rain chances will stay elevated at 70% to 80% through Monday night and Tuesday, with thunderstorms most likely during the afternoon and evening. Stronger cells could dump heavy rain in short bursts, reducing visibility and leaving ponding on highways such as I-70 and I-71.
Southwest winds around 10 mph may add to storm movement, but forecasters warn rainfall totals could top an inch in spots by Wednesday. Columbus, Grove City, and Dublin are expected to see the heaviest bands, while Franklin County road crews remain on alert for potential high-water closures.
Residents are advised to limit outdoor activities during storms, avoid flooded underpasses, and charge devices in case of isolated power outages. Evening commutes Monday and Tuesday may be slowed by reduced visibility and wet pavement.
Showers are expected to linger into Thursday before drier air pushes in late week, with clearer skies and highs in the upper 70s expected by Friday.
Five Day Forecast for Columbus, Ohio
- Monday: Showers and thunderstorms likely, high near 84.
- Tuesday: Showers and storms, especially afternoon, high near 78.
- Wednesday: Showers likely, high near 76.
- Thursday: Showers and storms likely after 2 p.m., high near 76.
- Friday: A chance of showers, partly sunny, high near 76.
