Columbus started today, on a deceptively quiet note, with clear skies and temperatures in the mid-60s at John Glenn Columbus International. That early calm will not stick around. A cold front is set to sweep across central Ohio this afternoon, bringing gusty southwest winds, scattered showers, and thunderstorms that are expected to turn widespread by late evening. The heaviest rain is forecast overnight into early Wednesday, with some neighborhoods around the metro at risk of picking up an inch or two of rainfall.
Afternoon Gusts And Evening Storms
Forecasters expect highs to climb into the low 70s, with southwest winds around 15 mph and gusts up to about 25 mph, making it feel plenty blustery by afternoon. Scattered showers are possible before about 2 p.m. Showers and thunderstorms then become more likely between roughly 2 p.m. and 5 p.m., with rain and storms turning more widespread as the evening wears on.
According to the National Weather Service Wilmington, the chance of precipitation for the day is near 60%, and any storms that do form could bring brief heavy downpours along with gusty winds. In other words, that after-work walk or patio plan will be dodging raindrops.
Late-Night Soaker And Morning Impacts
Showers and thunderstorms are expected to continue through Tuesday night, with lows slipping into the upper 40s. New rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches are possible in some spots as the overnight rain settles in. That steady soaking could slow Wednesday morning commutes and lead to standing water in low-lying areas, although forecasters currently consider widespread flooding to be unlikely.
Low clouds and reduced visibility are also possible late Tuesday night into early Wednesday. If you have morning travel plans, give yourself extra time and be ready for a grayer, wetter start than Tuesday’s blue-sky opening act.
What To Watch And What To Do
Before the gusty winds spin up this afternoon, secure loose patio furniture and bring vulnerable plants inside so they are not blown around or waterlogged. If you are driving through heavy rain, slow down, avoid standing water where you can, and expect sudden wind gusts on bridges and open stretches of road. Give storms space to move through and stay flexible with outdoor plans, especially into Tuesday night.
Keep an eye on updates from local authorities and the National Weather Service if your schedule takes you out into the wind and rain as the front moves across central Ohio.
