After a crystal-clear start at John Glenn Columbus International Airport, Columbus is heating up fast. Southerly winds are driving temperatures into the mid-80s this afternoon, with mostly sunny skies and a high near 84F. Later this evening, a slight chance of showers and isolated thunderstorms creeps in, so anyone heading out for the evening commute should be ready for breezy conditions and the occasional brief downpour.
Afternoon Heat And Gusty Winds
Temperatures are expected to top out near 84F this afternoon, with south winds of about 2 to 12 mph and gusts up to 22 mph, which will make it feel a bit steamy for late April. A slight chance of showers and isolated thunderstorms develops after about 5 p.m., but the main band of showers and storms is not expected until later tonight. Overnight, rain chances jump to around 80 percent, with lows near 60F, new rainfall totals between a tenth and a quarter of an inch, and pockets of gusty winds. These timing and wind details come from the National Weather Service Wilmington.
Tonight Into Saturday
Showers and thunderstorms are likely late tonight into early Saturday, with the steadiest rain and any stronger storms arriving after dark. Clouds will build in, leading to a mostly cloudy night with a low around 60F. By Saturday, cooler northwest winds take over, knocking the high back to around 72F and trimming storm coverage down to more scattered showers through the day.
Looking Ahead
Another system is expected to move in late Monday into Tuesday, bringing a broader chance of showers and thunderstorms and a higher risk of heavy downpours as a low-level jet pulls moisture into the region. While the exact timing is still a bit fuzzy, forecasters caution that locally heavy rain and gusty winds are possible early next week; for more background, see pop-up storms poised to soak the Columbus commute.
What To Do
If you have outdoor plans this evening, keep a rain jacket or umbrella within reach and be ready for quick pauses thanks to downpours or gusty winds. On the roads, heavier bursts of rain can cut visibility and stretch stopping distances. Stay weather-aware overnight and check the latest forecasts before any early-morning activities on Saturday.
