Today, June 24, started about as nice as it gets in late June, with mostly clear skies and a cool dawn low near 56°F at John Glenn Columbus International Airport. The rest of the day is set to stay mostly sunny, with a high near 81°F and a light southwest breeze, a calm setup before the weather turns noticeably busier later in the week.
Active Pattern Late This Week
From tomorrow, June 25, through Saturday, June 27, showers and thunderstorms are expected at times, with the highest risk for heavy downpours and localized flooding centered on Friday, June 26. The National Weather Service in Wilmington reports growing confidence in excessive rainfall late this week, and forecasters note there is also a chance for a few strong storms as moisture and humidity climb heading into next week.
What This Means For Your Commute
The most widespread rain still looks most likely on Friday, so give yourself some extra time for both the morning and evening commutes on June 26. We already flagged the warming trend earlier this month, and you can revisit that early June warm-up hint for context, but the fresh concern now is the potential for repeated rounds of heavy rain that can quickly lead to ponding on roadways and sporadic flooding in low-lying spots.
Heat Returns Early Next Week And Cooling Options
Heat makes a comeback by early next week, with temperatures climbing into the upper 80s by Monday, June 29. By Tuesday, June 30, readings could reach the low to mid-90s, and heat index values near or above 100 are possible. For anyone needing a break from the steam, the City of Columbus keeps a list of cooling centers, including the Third Shift Warming/Cooling Center at 1015 E. Main St., which operates 24/7. City officials recommend calling 311 for help locating an open site.
Takeaway
Enjoy the mild and pleasant Wednesday while it lasts, but keep an umbrella handy and have a backup plan for outdoor events later this week, since heavy downpours can pop up fast and slow travel. We will share any watches or warnings if they are issued.
