Columbus, Ohio – Residents of central Ohio can expect a transition from dry, sunny conditions on Friday to an unsettled evening marked by showers and gusty winds. This shift in weather raises concerns for motorists and outdoor activities heading into the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, a band of rain is forecast to move into Franklin County after 8 p.m. on Friday. With wind gusts potentially reaching 29 mph, the combination of wet roads and poor visibility is likely to impact travel, especially along major highways such as I-70 and I-71.
Evening Rain and Wind: What to Expect
The rain expected on Friday night will be light but steady, with forecasts estimating up to a tenth of an inch. While not heavy, the precipitation is enough to create slick driving conditions. The National Weather Service emphasizes the importance of caution during this period, urging drivers to:
- Allow extra travel time to accommodate slower speeds and reduced visibility.
- Keep headlights on to increase visibility for all road users.
- Secure outdoor items that could be displaced by the gusty winds.
“The combination of gusty winds near 29 miles per hour and steady rain creates conditions that require careful driving, especially on busy highways,” said a spokesperson from the National Weather Service in Wilmington.
Weekend Weather Outlook: Improvement on the Horizon
Although Saturday will start damp and cloudy, the morning showers will give way to clearing skies by the afternoon. Temperatures will rise to a comfortable 72 degrees, making it ideal for outdoor plans like football games and social events.
Sunday promises to be the best day of the weekend, featuring mostly sunny skies, highs near 71 degrees, and light winds. Cooler evening temperatures dropping to around 46 degrees will bring a refreshing, fall-like atmosphere to the region.
The warmth continues into Monday with mostly sunny skies and highs climbing into the mid-70s before a slight temperature fluctuation is expected throughout the week.
Extended Five-Day Forecast for Columbus, Ohio
- Saturday: Early showers followed by clearing. High 72°F, low 50°F.
- Sunday: Mostly sunny. High 71°F, low 46°F.
- Monday: Sunny and warmer. High 74°F, low 49°F.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny. High 78°F, low 54°F.
- Wednesday: Sunny. High 83°F, low 58°F.
As fall slowly settles in, residents should stay informed about potential weather changes. The National Weather Service warns that additional weather disturbances could emerge by midweek, possibly bringing stronger winds or heavier rainfall.
Preparing for Unsettled Weather: Safety Tips
- Check your vehicle’s tire tread and brakes before driving in wet conditions.
- Avoid distractions and maintain a safe following distance on slick roads.
- Secure patio furniture, plants, and other items that could be blown around by winds.
- Keep a flashlight and emergency kit handy in case of power outages or delays.
What do you think about this weather update? Are you prepared for the Friday night showers and gusty winds in Columbus? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
