If you’ve been craving a weather shake-up, this week in Columbus won’t disappoint. From light snow and freezing drizzle to a weekend rainstorm and a bitterly cold start to next week, Mother Nature is serving it all. Here’s what to expect day-by-day and how you can prepare for this wild weather ride.
Tuesday, February 11 — Snow on the Horizon
Today’s sky will be blanketed with thick clouds, making the sun feel like a distant memory. With a high of 34°F (1°C), bundle up and prepare for a potential dusting of snow in the afternoon. There’s a 50% chance of flurries beginning after 10 AM, so if you’re heading out, keep that winter coat handy and watch for slick patches on the road.
Wednesday, February 12 — A Tricky Morning Ahead
Things turn messy on Wednesday with freezing drizzle expected in the morning hours. Roads and sidewalks could become skating rinks, so be extra cautious during your morning commute. As temperatures climb to 41°F (5°C) in the afternoon, the drizzle will shift to rain. Don’t let the daytime warmth fool you—those morning conditions are where the real danger lies.
Thursday, February 13 — Sun Makes a Brief Comeback
After a damp and drizzly midweek, the sun finally fights its way through on Thursday. But don’t expect a warm-up just yet. The high will peak around 36°F (2°C), and while it’s a welcome break from the rain, the cold air will keep you bundled up. Still, a little sunshine should help recharge your batteries before things get dicey again.
Friday, February 14 — Clouds Set the Stage for Trouble
Valentine’s Day is bringing more clouds than romance. The high will hover near 35°F (2°C), but the real story lies ahead. These clouds are the prelude to a potentially powerful weekend storm. Rain showers are expected to roll in on Saturday, so if you have weekend plans, consider carrying an umbrella and checking local updates regularly.
Saturday, February 15 — Soggy Saturday with Steady Rain
Rain will dominate the day as temperatures rise to 44°F (7°C). It won’t be a torrential downpour, but the steady showers will make the city feel damp and dreary. Water accumulation on streets could create puddles, so watch for splashes if you’re walking downtown.
Sunday, February 16 — Cold and Windy with Snowflakes in the Air
Winter makes a comeback on Sunday with temperatures dropping to 34°F (1°C). Gusty winds will make it feel even colder, and intermittent snow showers could create slippery conditions once again. It’s the kind of day where you’ll want to hunker down indoors, sip on something warm, and avoid unnecessary travel.
Monday, February 17 — Bitter Cold Returns
Don’t put away the heavy coats just yet. Monday will be frigid, with highs only reaching 23°F (-5°C). Sunshine will briefly grace the morning skies before giving way to thick clouds by afternoon. The day will be a sharp reminder that winter isn’t done with us.
Weekend Storm Safety Alert: What You Need to Know
Local meteorologists are sounding the alarm for potential storm activity over the weekend. While the primary concern for Saturday is rain, Sunday’s cold snap could turn standing water into patches of ice. Pay close attention to weather updates, and if conditions worsen, prepare for road closures and icy spots in low-lying areas. Stock up on essentials and plan indoor activities to stay warm and dry.
Pro Tips for the Week Ahead:
- Morning Commuters: On Wednesday, give yourself extra time to navigate slick roads. Ice patches may not be visible until it’s too late.
- Weekend Warriors: Delay outdoor errands on Saturday if possible, and keep an eye on developing storm reports.
- Layer Up on Monday: The freezing air and wind chill will bite, so wear layers, gloves, and scarves to protect exposed skin.
