Today, July 2, started less like a summer morning and more like walking into a sauna, with sticky humidity and temperatures already in the mid-70s before breakfast. The heat will climb in a hurry, with mostly sunny skies and a high near 97°F, and heat-index values expected to reach up to 106°F. Overnight, temperatures will only fall into the mid 70s, a setup that can quickly lead to heat-related illness for anyone without reliable air conditioning or another way to cool down.
Afternoon Sizzle And The Warning
The hottest stretch arrives this afternoon, July 2, around 4 p.m., when readings push into the mid to upper 90s and humidity peaks late in the day. According to the National Weather Service, an Extreme Heat Warning is in effect through tomorrow, July 3, at 8:00 p.m., and low temperatures stuck in the 70s at night will offer almost no relief. Officials advise shifting any strenuous outdoor work to early morning or evening hours and drinking plenty of water if you have to be outside.
Where To Cool Off
Columbus Recreation and Parks has opened five community centers as dedicated cooling centers and extended pool and sprayground hours beginning June 30. Per Columbus Recreation and Parks, the cooling centers are Dodge (667 Sullivant Ave.), Driving Park (1100 Rhoads Ave.), Glenwood (1888 Fairmont Ave.), Linden (1350 Briarwood Ave.) and Marion Franklin (2801 Lockbourne Road), and are open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. On July 1, cooling center rush was reported at several locations as residents packed in to escape the triple-digit heat.
Weekend Thunderstorm Risk
Storm chances ramp up as the holiday weekend approaches. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are possible tomorrow night, with more widespread afternoon and evening storms expected Saturday and Sunday, July 4 to 5. The National Weather Service notes that any storms could bring heavy downpours and strong wind gusts, so it is smart to build a backup plan into outdoor celebrations and watch for forecast updates. Timing and placement of storms are still uncertain, so double-check the latest outlook before heading out.
Heat Safety
Staying safe in this pattern starts with the basics: drink water early and often, never leave children or pets in parked cars, and move workouts, yard work, and other strenuous activity to the cooler hours of the day. If you or someone nearby starts to feel faint, dizzy, or confused, get to an air-conditioned or shaded space, cool down with wet cloths, and seek medical help if symptoms do not improve.
