Columbus started today, socked in by patchy, occasionally dense fog, with temperatures already in the low 70s at John Glenn Columbus International. The fog is expected to burn off after sunrise, trading low visibility for classic Ohio summer steam: hot, humid air and an afternoon high near 91F. Muggy nights will bring little relief before the real heat ramps up midweek.
Foggy Commute, Summer-in-Your-Face Afternoon
Early drivers may run into brief stretches where visibility drops to around a mile, especially in low-lying or poorly drained areas. If you are heading out, slow down, use low beams, and give yourself extra room to stop. As the morning fog lifts, scattered clouds should thin to mostly sunny skies with a light south breeze, setting up a very warm, sticky afternoon citywide.
Heat Advisory From Tuesday Through Thursday
A Heat Advisory is in effect from noon tomorrow through 8 p.m. Thursday, July 2, for much of central and south-central Ohio, according to the National Weather Service. Highs tomorrow through Thursday are expected to climb into the mid-to-upper 90s, with heat-index values potentially reaching 103F. Overnight lows stuck in the mid-70s will keep conditions uncomfortably warm around the clock.
The advisory notes that hot, humid conditions may lead to heat-related illness, particularly for young children, older adults, people without reliable cooling, and anyone working or exercising outdoors. Officials urge residents to limit strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day and to stay well hydrated.
How To Stay Cool
For residents without dependable air conditioning, Columbus parks, community centers and public libraries are expected to serve as go-to cooling spots during the advisory period, with the city’s transit agency helping people reach them. The Central Ohio Transit Authority now waives fares whenever the National Weather Service issues heat advisories, making it easier to get to cooling centers and libraries.
Health officials recommend drinking plenty of water, avoiding heavy exertion during midday, checking in on older neighbors and vulnerable friends, and keeping pets indoors and out of parked cars.
Weekend Outlook
Looking ahead, forecast models point to a better chance of scattered showers and thunderstorms late in the week and into the July 4 holiday weekend. Friday currently appears to be the most likely day for scattered storms, with additional chances on Saturday and Sunday.
Any storms that do pop up could briefly knock temperatures down but may come with heavy rain and gusty winds. If you are planning outdoor holiday events, it is wise to have a backup plan that includes some shade, shelter, and flexibility on timing.
