Ohio – Cold air stings the face, car exhaust hangs low, and every step across pavement feels sharper than usual this morning. The cold settles deep across central Ohio, making even routine errands feel urgent.
The National Weather Service in Wilmington reports a Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect until noon. Wind chills drop as low as 15 degrees below zero across central and west-central Ohio. These values pose a real risk of hypothermia for anyone outdoors too long without protection.
In Columbus, temperatures sit near 11 degrees early, while light northwest winds drive wind chills well below zero. Roads remain mostly dry, but bridges and shaded surfaces can turn slick quickly. Flash freezing remains a concern wherever melting occurred yesterday. Drivers along I-70, I-71, and I-270 should stay alert, especially during early travel hours.
Skies stay mostly sunny today, but warmth remains elusive. Afternoon highs reach only the upper teens. The cold advisory expires midday, yet bitter conditions linger into evening. Tonight turns colder as clouds increase. Lows fall near 4 degrees, setting the stage for another icy start.
Sunday brings a slight shift. Clouds thicken early, and a brief window for light snow develops during the morning. Any accumulation stays under half an inch, but even light snow can reduce visibility and slick roads. Temperatures recover into the mid-20s by afternoon.
Looking ahead, a clear warming trend builds. Monday turns partly sunny with highs near 34. Tuesday surges into the mid-40s, a sharp February rebound. Midweek rain chances return as warmer air settles in, hinting at a broader thaw across the Midwest and Great Lakes region.
Limit outdoor exposure this morning, dress in layers, and keep extra time for travel. How cold did it feel when you stepped outside today?
Five-Day Outlook for Columbus, OH
- Today: Mostly sunny, bitter cold; high near 17°F
- Tonight: Increasing clouds; low near 4°F
- Sunday: Chance of light snow early; high near 24°F
- Monday: Partly sunny; high near 34°F
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny and milder; high near 45°F
