Columbus rolled today, July 16, under muggy but mostly clear skies, with temperatures in the mid‑70s at John Glenn Columbus International Airport. That will not last long. Haze from Canadian wildfire smoke is expected to thicken through the morning, turning the afternoon into a hot, hazy slog with temperatures near 94F and heat‑index values that could feel close to 101F. An Air Quality Alert is in effect for central Ohio, and older adults, children, and anyone with breathing issues are urged to limit how long they stay outside. Showers and thunderstorms later in the week may bring some relief, but they also carry the risk of heavy downpours.
This Afternoon: Hazy Heat
Expect a mostly sunny, very warm afternoon with a west breeze and a high near 94F. Forecasters are calling for areas of smoke after about 8 a.m., and according to NWS Wilmington, heat‑index values could push into the 100 to 101F range. In practical terms, that means shorter outdoor stretches, more shade and a lot more water.
Air Quality And Health
The Mid‑Ohio Regional Planning Commission has issued an Air Quality Alert for central Ohio through midnight tonight, as wildfire smoke and rising ozone levels are expected to nudge the Air Quality Index into the "Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups" category. MORPC projects ozone values around 101 and fine particle readings near 129. People with asthma, COPD, or other respiratory issues, along with children and older adults, are advised to limit prolonged or strenuous outdoor activity and, when possible, schedule necessary outdoor time earlier in the day.
Late Week: Storms And Flooding Risk
Rain chances climb tomorrow, July 17, and stay elevated into Saturday, July 18, as a front slides through the region. The NWS Wilmington notes that some storms could drop locally heavy rain and produce gusty winds, which may trigger brief urban flooding in low‑lying or poorly drained spots. Anyone with weekend plans outdoors should keep an eye on updated forecasts and be ready to dodge a downpour.
What To Do Today
Today is a good day to skip the marathon yardwork. Limit long outdoor workouts, drink plenty of water, and take regular breaks in air‑conditioned spaces if you can. You can also sign up for local AQI alerts and find practical tips on dealing with smoke and heat on the MORPC air quality page.
