Columbus residents are experiencing an unprecedented Arctic cold front as temperatures have dropped to dangerous lows. As of Thursday, February 20, 2025, the city is enduring clear skies and bone-chilling temperatures of 20°F (-6°C). The cold front, caused by a polar vortex, has sent extremely cold air sweeping across the region, affecting millions of people in its path.
What Is Causing the Extreme Cold?
The polar vortex is a mass of cold air that normally sits in the Arctic region, but occasionally it shifts southward. This time, it has brought life-threatening cold temperatures to places that are not typically affected by extreme winter conditions. The Arctic blast in Columbus has caused temperatures to plummet well below the average for February, leaving many residents shocked by the intensity of the cold.
Along with freezing temperatures, the city is experiencing dangerous wind chills, making it feel even colder than it is. These conditions are expected to persist for several days, and residents are being warned to take precautionary measures.
What to Expect in Columbus Over the Next Week
- Friday, February 21: Mostly sunny skies, but still cold with highs only reaching 29°F (-2°C). The low will dip to 10°F (-12°C), making it feel even colder with the wind chill.
- Saturday, February 22: Expect cloudy skies, with a slight warming trend. The high will be 34°F (1°C), and the low will be 18°F (-8°C).
- Sunday, February 23: The best day of the weekend, with intervals of sun and clouds, highs around 39°F (4°C), and lows of 30°F (-1°C).
- Monday, February 24: Milder temperatures with partly cloudy skies and a high of 47°F (8°C). Lows will stay mild at 37°F (3°C).
- Tuesday, February 25: Expect mostly sunny skies and highs near 53°F (12°C), with lows around 32°F (0°C).
- Wednesday, February 26: Clouds will return, with highs of 49°F (9°C) and lows of 36°F (2°C).
- Thursday, February 27: Cloudy skies and cooler temperatures with a high of 41°F (5°C) and a low of 28°F (-2°C).
How Does This Cold Affect Columbus?
This Arctic cold snap is having a significant impact on day-to-day life in Columbus. Schools have closed, and several businesses have adjusted their hours to accommodate for the severe cold. Travel disruptions have also occurred, with icy roads and dangerous conditions causing accidents.
Additionally, the high demand for heating has caused some power outages, with local utilities urging residents to conserve energy. Many people in Columbus are struggling to keep warm, and the city has opened up emergency shelters for those in need.
Safety Tips for Columbus Residents
- Stay Indoors: The best way to protect yourself from the extreme cold is to stay inside as much as possible. If you must go outside, dress in layers to help trap body heat.
- Check for Frostbite: Wind chills can make it feel much colder than it actually is. Watch for signs of frostbite, including numbness and pale skin, and seek shelter if you feel symptoms.
- Drive Safely: Traveling in this weather can be dangerous. Road conditions will be slick and icy, especially in the early morning hours. If you must drive, slow down and give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination.
- Help Vulnerable Neighbors: Ensure that elderly neighbors or people without adequate heating are staying safe and warm. Check on family members who may need assistance.
- Prepare Your Home: Make sure pipes are insulated and keep faucets dripping to prevent freezing. Ensure your heating system is in good working order.
When Will the Cold End?
The good news is that the Arctic blast will begin to ease by Saturday, February 22. Temperatures will gradually rise through the weekend, and by Monday, the city will experience a significant warm-up with temperatures reaching the 50s.
While Columbus will see some relief, it’s important to stay prepared and continue monitoring the weather, as additional cold fronts could move in later this winter.
