Columbus wakes up under a blanket of clouds and temperatures in the upper 30s this morning, but it will not stay chilly for long. Forecasters are calling for mostly sunny skies this afternoon with a high near 58°F. South winds start off on the light side and increase as the day wears on, while a few sheltered valleys could see patchy fog during the morning commute. If your route runs through low-lying or shaded stretches, leave a little extra time.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
The payoff for that gray start is a mild, sun-filled afternoon, paired with a noticeable uptick in wind. South winds should run about 2–12 mph with the potential for gusts near 20–25 mph, so it is a good idea to secure loose patio furniture and stay cautious in higher-profile vehicles. The same warm advection pushing readings into the upper 50s will help crank up that gusty south flow later today, according to the National Weather Service. Most neighborhoods are expected to feel the milder air by midday.
Foggy Mornings, Sunny Afternoons
Early Friday, patches of fog are most likely in sheltered neighborhoods and river valleys, with visibility dropping on some local roads for the first hour or two of the commute. Southerly winds and clearing skies should thin out the fog by mid-morning, which will improve travel conditions across most of the metro. If you run into dense fog, keep low beams on and your speed down.
Weekend Snow Threat
Forecast confidence is still mixed for late Sunday into Monday as the next systems line up. A weak disturbance early Sunday may produce mostly light and spotty precipitation, while a Monday system that models agree on more strongly could bring a broader mix. Forecasters say a rain-to-snow transition is possible in colder pockets, with localized snow accumulations generally expected to be light, from under an inch to around an inch if snow does materialize. Expect the timing and details to get sharper over the next 48–72 hours, and check out our flurries-to-spring setup for background.
If you have morning plans this weekend, build in a backup for the Monday commute and check local forecasts before heading out. Even light wet snow or a brief wintry mix could leave untreated bridges and overpasses slick. For continuous updates, follow the National Weather Service along with local transportation advisories if travel is critical.
