Weather
Central Ohio Weather This Week: Frost Risk Lingers Through Monday Night Oct 19
Wilmington, OH – Another round of chilly overnight temperatures could bring frost to portions of southwest and central Ohio Sunday night, Oct. 18, with the potential continuing Monday night before a g
By Paige Sullivan · 2026-10-18T09:00:13.457Z
Wilmington, OH – Another round of chilly overnight temperatures could bring frost to portions of southwest and central Ohio Sunday night, Oct. 18, with the potential continuing Monday night before a gradual warming trend becomes more noticeable. Residents with sensitive outdoor plants may want to take precautions despite the dry, mostly clear weather expected across the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, temperatures will slowly warm during the beginning of the week, but frost remains possible Sunday night into Monday morning and again Monday night into Tuesday morning.
The agency's forecast, issued at 1:52 a.m. Sunday, shows overnight temperatures generally falling into the middle and upper 30s across much of its forecast area.
Where could frost develop tonight?
Communities around Cincinnati, Dayton, Columbus, Wilmington and surrounding portions of southwest and central Ohio will experience another chilly night.
Sunday night temperatures are forecast near 35 to 39 degrees across much of the region, with some locations potentially colder.
Although many forecast temperatures remain above freezing, frost can still form on exposed surfaces when conditions are favorable.
Residents should consider protecting sensitive flowers, vegetables and other vulnerable vegetation before temperatures drop overnight.
Will Monday night be just as cold?
The National Weather Service indicates another opportunity for frost Monday night, Oct. 19, as temperatures remain generally in the 30s.
Clear skies and dry conditions will continue across the region, allowing temperatures to fall overnight despite gradually warmer afternoons.
By Tuesday night, Oct. 20, forecast lows should moderate into the upper 30s and lower 40s in many communities.
When will warmer weather arrive?
The warming trend begins early this week, with afternoon temperatures gradually increasing through Tuesday.
The National Weather Service expects very little cloud cover and continued dry conditions during the period.
Looking ahead: NOAA's Oct. 25–31 outlook favors above normal temperatures across Ohio, suggesting milder conditions could continue toward Halloween.
For now, the immediate concern remains frost potential during the next two nights, especially for residents with sensitive outdoor plants.