Columbus started Friday, May 8, 2026, on a calm note with mostly clear skies, cool mid-40s temperatures at John Glenn Columbus International Airport, and a quiet commute. That tranquil setup is not expected to last. Clouds will build through the day with highs in the mid-60s, and those spotty afternoon showers on the radar could be the opening act for a wetter Friday night drive home.
Friday Evening Into Saturday
Forecasters call for only a slight chance of showers late Friday afternoon, but the odds go up after sunset. The better chance for a steady, soaking rain arrives Friday night into early Saturday, with showers likely overnight and a low near 52. New rainfall totals between a quarter and a half-inch are possible, which could leave roads slick for the late-evening commute, according to the National Weather Service.
What This Means For Your Commute
Drivers should plan on wet roads and reduced visibility for the Friday night and early Saturday runs. Leave some extra time, ease up on the gas, and steer clear of standing water where you can. Central Ohio transit riders are in the clear for now: the regional agency COTA is not reporting any active service alerts, but riders may want to check for updates if showers ramp up.
Weekend Outlook And Aviation
Saturday is expected to rebound into the low 70s, with a chance of morning showers before skies gradually clear. A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms may sneak back in late Saturday evening. Sunday looks a bit cooler, with a high near 67 and scattered showers remaining in the picture. The National Weather Service also keeps another wetter window in the forecast for Tuesday night into Wednesday, and airports in the region may see brief MVFR ceilings and reduced visibility as each round of showers moves through.
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