Columbus started the day under cloudy skies and sticky air near 70°F, but the real action is set for this afternoon, when highs jump into the upper 80s to around 90°F and scattered showers or thunderstorms enter the picture.
Afternoon Heat And Gusty Winds
Most neighborhoods around the metro are expected to climb into the upper 80s, with a few spots flirting with 90°F by mid to late afternoon. South winds should ramp up to around 10-20 mph with gusts near 30 mph in the stronger bursts, enough to shove around lightweight patio furniture and make it feel even warmer. Forecasters at the National Weather Service say warm, moist air will be firmly in place ahead of an approaching front.
Evening Storms Possible
A cold front moving through Tuesday will boost storm chances late in the day and into the evening, and organized storms could deliver damaging straight-line winds and isolated hail. The Storm Prediction Center includes the Ohio Valley in a broader severe-weather outlook for today, which means a few strong storms are on the table. Since timing can shift, keep weather alerts turned on and have a solid indoor backup for any outdoor plans.
Timing And Rainfall Tonight
Showers and thunderstorms become more likely after sunset, with the heaviest activity expected Tuesday night. New rainfall totals of about a quarter to a half-inch are possible in the stronger cells. Any line or cluster of storms could line up with the evening commute and bring brief heavy downpours and poor visibility on surface streets. Drivers should build in extra time and steer clear of standing water where possible, according to the National Weather Service.
Plan Ahead
If you have outdoor plans, move them inside and secure loose items like umbrellas or patio furniture, and consider postponing strenuous activity during the warmest part of the afternoon. For background on the warm-up that set the stage for today’s storms, see our May 16 preview.
