Columbus rolled out of bed to frosty windshields and a Freeze Warning on Wednesday morning, with temperatures dipping into the low 30s before sunrise. The chill will not stick around for long, though, as sunshine is expected this afternoon with a high near 64°F and a light southeast breeze. Roads should stay dry for the commute, but tender plants and exposed plumbing are still on the line through mid-morning, so yard work is better saved for later in the day once temperatures rebound.
Morning Frost And Freeze Warning
According to the National Weather Service, the Freeze Warning remains in effect until 10 a.m. Wednesday, with sub-freezing readings as low as 28°F in some pockets. The advisory bluntly reminds residents to “Take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold.” Southeast winds of 5 to 8 mph should keep the worst of the cold somewhat contained, but low-lying areas and unprotected lawns are still vulnerable to a hard frost.
Afternoon And Week Ahead
Sunshine returns in full this afternoon with highs near 64°F, then a rapid warm-up sends temperatures into the mid 70s on Thursday. A weak front slides through Friday, bringing a chance of showers and isolated thunderstorms, although storminess looks limited. The weekend shapes up mainly dry, with temperatures climbing toward the low 80s on Sunday. The National Weather Service highlights Friday as the best shot at organized rain while noting that overall instability stays on the low side.
What To Do
For now, bring potted and tender plants indoors or cover garden beds through the morning, and hold off on sprinkler or irrigation cycles until after mid-morning once temperatures rise above freezing. Drivers should stay alert for frost-slick spots on shaded side streets and bridges during the morning rush and give themselves a little extra travel time if conditions look icy.
