Residents across the Columbus, Cincinnati, and Wilmington regions woke up to an unusually cold Tuesday morning. The National Weather Service Wilmington Ohio (NWS ILN) detailed the current weather conditions, highlighting that the cold grip will gradually moderate through the end of the week. Brighter days are forecasted to arrive by the weekend with above-normal temperatures and a chance for rain.
The cold didn't shy from making its mark early today, as low-level northwesterly flow off of Lake Michigan set up a band of snow showers, leading to light additional snow accumulations in the northern and northeastern portions of the area. Some roadways may have gotten a bit slippery due to the dusting, so it wouldn't be surprising to see some cautious driving out there. According to the NWS, accumulations are expected to range from a dusting to a half inch before ending by sunrise. It's not all gloomy, though; the forecast promises dry conditions persisting through the remainder of the week.
Looking forward, the NWS report specifies that as we roll into the evening and Wednesday, we have a weak mid-level disturbance to keep an eye on. While moisture is sparse and chances for precipitation are low, we can't entirely rule out a few sprinkles or snow showers early as this disturbance makes its move across the region. Tonight, skies should clear out with lows dipping to 30 to 35 degrees.
Wednesday won't stray too far from the trend, with northwest flow continuing aloft, and any precipitation and clouds staying north of ILN's area. It signifies that the warmth of the sun will coax temperatures to climb, though readings are still set to linger 2 to 6 degrees below normal. The weather discussion anticipates highs ranging from the mid-40s in the north to the mid/upper 50s in the south.
The weekend is shaping up to be one to plan some outdoor activities, with high temperatures Saturday and Sunday in the 60s, courtesy of that increasing southwest flow. However, it's not all sunshine as this also heralds an increased chance for rain, especially on Sunday. The week starts on a cooler note, though, with the passage of a weak cold front leading to highs on Monday in the 50s. It's not quite the time just yet to put away those rain jackets and umbrellas.
