Columbus
AI Assisted Icon
Published on January 16, 2025
Ohio Residents Prepare for Light Snowfall, Hazardous Conditions Anticipated in Columbus and RegionSixflashphoto, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Residents in Columbus, Cincinnati, Wilmington, and the adjoining areas are bracing for a quick bout of light snow today, followed by a dry Friday and a possible mix of rain and snow approaching the weekend. This weather update, courtesy of the National Weather Service, outlines the immediate forecast to impact commutes and travel over the region.

According to the most recent forecast discussion, a southeast-bound clipper system is predicted to scatter light snow across the Ohio Valley during the early hours, particularly hindering morning commutes with reduced visibility and light accumulations. "The most concerning aspect of this setup is certainly the timing," the National Weather Service said, affecting travel with possible blowing snow that may further challenge visibility. Expected accumulations are up to an inch, with localized higher amounts possible in central Ohio and lighter elsewhere.

The snow is forecasted to dissipate by late morning, but isolated snow showers and scattered flurries might persist throughout the day. Come Friday, surface high pressure is anticipated to bring clearer skies and slightly warmer conditions. Daytime temperatures will climb into the mid-30s to lower 40s, aiding in melting the recently fallen snow.

Looking ahead to Friday night into Saturday, another system will usher in mild temperatures, with the rain falling over the still-warm ground, limiting the chance of widespread icing. But a brief transition back to snow is expected as a cold front sweeps through later on Saturday. The long-term forecast beyond the weekend indicates a sharp drop in temperatures, leading to extremely cold days early next week, with morning lows dropping below 0°F and dangerous wind chills. "Adding to the concern is that winds will not become completely calm through this period," warned the weather officials, suggesting a period of hazardous conditions with dangerously cold wind chills, according to the National Weather Service.

For aviation interests, mainly flights operating through the Columbus (KCMH) and Rickenbacker (KLCK) terminals, the conditions could lead to minor disruptions due to variable snowfall and potentially reduced visibility throughout the day. Pilots should anticipate MVFR and occasional IFR conditions as they navigate Ohio's tempestuous winter skies.