Columbus woke up shivering Monday, April 6, 2026, under clear skies and a patchy frost, with many neighborhoods bottoming out in the mid 30s early this morning. A Frost Advisory is in effect until 10 a.m. EDT, and the chill is not done yet: a Freeze Watch is posted for late Monday night into Tuesday morning, April 7, 2026, when lows could dip below freezing. Skies should turn mostly sunny with a high near 57°F this afternoon, but a brisk west wind will keep it feeling cooler. Gardeners and anyone with exposed outdoor plumbing are being urged to double check plant coverings and sprinkler timers before temperatures tumble again tonight.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, OH, "Be prepared to take steps to protect tender plants from the cold." Forecasters warn that frost and sub-freezing temperatures could kill sensitive vegetation and potentially damage unprotected outdoor pipes, especially in low-lying or sheltered spots. Valleys and tucked-away backyards will be most vulnerable once winds relax late tonight.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
West winds of 6 to 15 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph, are expected this afternoon. The stiffest gusts should hit open areas and bridges, where the breeze can make it feel chillier than the thermometer suggests and send unsecured patio furniture or lightweight yard gear sliding across the deck. Drivers of high-profile vehicles are advised to use extra caution on exposed stretches of road later today.
Midweek Warmup
After a cool Tuesday, with a high near 47°F on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, temperatures rebound quickly. Forecast highs climb into the mid 60s on Wednesday, then into the low 70s by Thursday, April 9, 2026. A slight chance of showers and a few thunderstorms shows up late Friday, but the broader trend points to much warmer weather, with highs possibly near 82°F by Sunday, April 12, 2026.
Plan Ahead
Residents are encouraged to bring potted plants indoors or cover garden beds tonight and again Tuesday morning, and to consider wrapping exposed outdoor pipes where possible. For background on timing and earlier coverage, see our April 5 article on the recent frost threat and whipping winds.
