Residents in the Columbus and Cincinnati areas can look forward to a break from the recent cold snap as the National Weather Service forecasts a modest warm-up. According to NWS's latest report, dry conditions and a gradual rise in temperatures are expected as high pressure takes control this weekend.
The clear skies that have taken over will remain mostly unhindered through the night, with some midlevel moisture anticipated to drift in from the southwest come sunrise. As the stratus cloud deck moves eastwards, "starry skies are expected through most of the night," per the National Weather Service. Unfortunately, those looking for a warm-up will have to bundle up a bit longer, as temperatures are predicted to "bottom out in the mid to upper teens" before any clouds insulate the land by daybreak.
For those planning outdoor activities, the forecast favors an increasingly sunny afternoon following a mostly cloudy morning. Southwest winds will pick up to around 10-15 knots this afternoon, providing a slight relief from the calm but cold start to the day. Highs are expected to range "from the lower 30s near/north of I-70 to around 40 degrees south of the Ohio River," the National Weather Service Wilmington office detailed.
Heading into the work week, a more active weather pattern takes shape with several chances for light precipitation. As the forecast discussion outlines, despite a mixture of clouds on Sunday, abundant sunshine is in store, especially for areas south of I-70. But it's not time for the heavy coats to retire just yet, as Sunday night temperatures will dip to around 20 degrees under mostly clear skies. However, the shortwave train will keep weather watchers on their toes with "chances for rain possibly mixing with snow in the early morning hours depending on temperatures and timing," as the National Weather Service explains. Regional winds also ramp up on Monday, promising gusts between 25-30 MPH.
The long-term outlook is optimistic for those pining for spring as the area's temperatures continue to climb into the mid-week. "Temperates are expected to creep slightly above normal by mid-week and beyond," as per the National Weather Service, affirmed the forecasters. Whether heading to work or planning early spring gardening, the residents of Ohio's weather-watching regions can at least take solace in the fact that warmer days are on the horizon. In aviation terms, pilots can anticipate generally clear conditions with a chance of MVFR on Tuesday and Wednesday.
