Columbus drivers are creeping their way through a frosty soup today, as freezing fog settles over central Ohio and turns the commute into a slow-motion crawl. Visibility has dropped to roughly a quarter mile in spots, and bridges and overpasses are slick as temperatures hover near 30°F at John Glenn Columbus International Airport (KCMH), according to observations from the National Weather Service. Early-morning motorists should plan on extra time, slower traffic, and some seriously shortened sightlines through mid-morning.
A Dense Fog Advisory, issued by the National Weather Service, remains in effect until 10 a.m., warning that visibility could dip to one-quarter mile or less and that freezing fog may create hazardous driving conditions. Forecasters expect the fog to gradually mix out late in the morning as southerly winds pick up and temperatures climb into the mid-50s. Before heading out, drivers can check live road cameras and traffic conditions using Ohio 511.
Warm Midweek, With Rain And Gusty Winds On Deck
Once the fog finally clears, it will feel more like a preview of spring than mid-February, with highs pushing into the mid-50s. Wednesday looks even milder, with afternoon temperatures near the mid-60s as a stronger push of warm air moves north. The tradeoff: rain is likely tomorrow morning and again on Thursday.
By Thursday night, a higher chance of steady rain moves in, along with a slight risk of thunderstorms that could deliver heavier downpours. Southwest winds may gust into the 20s later in the week, so outdoor plans from midweek on may need a backup option. Forecasters recommend keeping an eye on updated outlooks as the system moves through.
Commute Tips While The Fog Hangs On
Drivers dealing with the fog this morning should stick to low-beam headlights, reduce speed, and leave extra following distance. Bridges and overpasses are especially sneaky trouble spots, with a light glaze possible where pavement temperatures are near freezing.
For a deeper dive into how this setup developed overnight and what it did to the early drive, see our earlier coverage, Slow-Motion Commute Mess. If visibility is particularly poor in your area, consider delaying any nonessential trips until conditions improve later this morning.
