By 5:35 a.m. EDT on Friday, April 3, 2026, downtown Columbus was starting the day warm and a bit unsettled, with partly cloudy skies, temperatures near 70°F, and a steady southwest breeze. Scattered showers and a few thunderstorms are on the table through the day, with the most organized storms favored for this afternoon.
Showers And Thunderstorms Friday
Expect a chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7:00 a.m., with a more likely window for storms from roughly 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Highs should climb to around 79°F, with southwest winds of 10 to 14 mph and gusts up to about 24 mph. Most spots will see light rain totals, around one tenth to one quarter of an inch, but any heavier downpours could briefly leave water ponding on streets.
Heightened Severe Risk Saturday, April 4
Saturday, April 4, is shaping up as the main troublemaker. Highs near 82°F and stronger south winds of 6 to 17 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph, will help set the stage for more organized storms late in the afternoon and into the evening. According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, the severe-storm threat has increased for Saturday afternoon and evening, with storms capable of producing damaging wind and heavy rainfall. From Saturday night into early Sunday, some locations could pick up three quarters of an inch to an inch of rain, along with sustained west winds and higher gusts. If you have Saturday evening plans, consider moving them indoors or at least having a solid backup plan.
Weekend Plans And Commute Impacts
Scattered to widespread storms during the day, followed by a potential line of storms rolling through Saturday evening, could tangle up commutes, outdoor events, and anything that depends on steady power. Before Saturday afternoon, secure patio furniture, tarps, and trash cans so they do not become airborne, and steer clear of driving through standing water. Flooding issues should be localized but can ramp up quickly under heavier cells. For additional context on the evolving setup, check out our earlier coverage, "Columbus Braces For Stormy Soaker."
Cool Down And Frost Risk Early Next Week
A cold front moves through late Saturday and flips the script. Sunday, April 5, is expected to top out near 53°F with a brisk west wind. Overnight lows from Sunday night through Tuesday morning will slide into the 30s, bringing a risk of frost Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday nights. Gardeners will want to cover tender plants. Daytime highs on Monday and Tuesday stay on the cooler side as well, so plan layers and outdoor chores with that chill in mind.
How To Stay Updated
Keep close tabs on the forecast and any watches or warnings this weekend, and be ready to move activities indoors quickly if storms close in. Make sure your phone is charged, enable local weather alerts, and avoid low-lying or flood-prone roads during heavier rain. If conditions turn severe, head to a sturdy interior room away from windows and follow instructions from local officials.
