Columbus, Ohio – Central Ohio residents should prepare for a mixture of rain, fog, and potentially dangerous driving conditions this weekend. Although the overall chances of rain have decreased across central and southwest Ohio, intense, brief downpours may still occur in areas north of I-70 tonight.
Showers and Fog Likely Across Central Ohio
The National Weather Service in Wilmington has issued a weather warning for central Ohio as low clouds and fog are expected to form overnight. Visibility will likely be reduced until mid-morning Sunday, making travel conditions hazardous, especially on major roads and rural stretches.
A Warm Night Ahead
Despite the unsettled weather, overnight temperatures will remain mild. Lows will hover around 70°F in places like Sidney and Kenton, and rise to about 73°F in larger cities such as Cincinnati and Dayton. This mild weather won’t bring much relief from the fog that will develop during the night.
Fog May Cause Hazardous Travel Conditions
As the fog forms early on Sunday, drivers may face poor visibility, particularly along U.S. Route 33, I-71 near Wilmington, and in rural areas north of Columbus. Locations like Marysville, Celina, and Newark are also at risk of experiencing brief downpours, which could cause water to pool on the roads. In some areas, visibility could even drop to nearly zero in valleys and open fields before sunrise.
Afternoon Storms Expected
On Sunday afternoon, scattered showers and storms are expected to return, particularly in areas stretching from Sidney to Chillicothe. These storms may bring lightning, gusty winds, and localized flooding, so it’s important to stay alert for changing weather conditions. Drivers should be prepared for storms that could lead to more hazardous travel conditions.
Travel Tips for Sunday Morning
If you plan to be out driving early Sunday morning, it’s important to take extra precautions. Use low beams, reduce your speed, and allow more time to reach your destination. The fog and potential rain could make visibility very limited, so taking it slow and staying cautious is key.
As Sunday afternoon storms develop, keep an eye on local forecasts to stay updated on any new alerts or warnings. This will help ensure safety during the brief, intense weather patterns expected over the next day.
Central Ohio residents should stay prepared for a weekend of unpredictable weather, with fog, brief downpours, and storms expected. If traveling, especially on Sunday morning, it’s important to take extra care, as reduced visibility could create dangerous conditions. Keep an eye on the weather and adjust your plans accordingly to stay safe.
