
Residents across Columbus, Cincinnati, Wilmington, and surrounding areas are bracing for a cocktail of winter weather conditions. The National Weather Service has issued a forecast predicting snow, snow showers, and an arctic front sweeping through the area by Sunday afternoon and evening. These weather events are expected to result in bitterly cold conditions extending into Wednesday morning.
For the citizens within the Winter Weather Advisory's alignment, which includes Robertson Co KY through Hocking Co OH, the forecast has remained unsettlingly consistent in recent updates. Snow accumulations are expected to range between 1 inch to as much as 3 inches due to above-normal snow-to-liquid ratios of approximately 15:1. According to the National Weather Service, "Greatest probabilities for 1-2 inches of snow remain within a corridor from Robertson Co KY through Hocking Co OH and points to the S."
The National Weather Service also warns of potential snow squalls during the afternoon and evening, which could significantly disrupt visibility and driving conditions across a much broader area than those affected by light accumulating snow earlier in the day. While snowfall amounts are not the main concern, "it is not about the amounts, but rather the rapid change in conditions that come with the passage," states the forecast discussion. Authorities are urging caution as the day unfolds into a frigid, wind-swept landscape.
Temperatures throughout the day Sunday are unlikely to rise significantly, ranging from the lower 20s in the northwest to the upper 20s in the southeast. Additionally, they are expected to plummet, potentially reaching several degrees below zero by Monday morning. An area-wide Cold Weather Advisory has been issued with wind chills nearing advisory or even warning criteria. The bitter cold is anticipated to be impactful, though exact values for temperatures and wind speeds remain medium-confidence forecasts.
Looking ahead to the week, a cold snap is projected to persist, with the Cold Weather Advisory lasting through Wednesday morning. Despite a brief period of warmer conditions Tuesday morning, the most severe conditions are expected Wednesday, with temperatures dropping below zero. The advisory encompasses precautions against potential wind chill values approaching -20F, particularly in parts of the ILN forecast area.
The latter part of the week offers some reprieve, with temperatures forecasted to climb back into the 20s and 30s by Thursday. However, a subsequent trough may introduce another chance of snow as the week closes. Residents should remain vigilant and prepare for these harsh winter conditions, staying informed through local forecasts and advisories.