Columbus, Ohio – Snow showers and plunging temperatures are creating slick and hazardous travel conditions across central Ohio this morning, affecting drivers in the Columbus and Wilmington areas during the early commute. While snowfall amounts remain light, the combination of freezing temperatures and gusty winds is causing roads to turn icy quickly, especially on bridges, overpasses, and untreated surfaces.
Snow Showers Create Early Travel Hazards
According to the National Weather Service, scattered snow showers moved through central Ohio during the morning hours, producing up to one-half inch of accumulation in isolated spots. Although totals are modest, pavement temperatures dropped below freezing overnight, allowing snow to stick and refreeze rapidly.
Drivers reported slick conditions forming suddenly, particularly on elevated roadways where cold air circulates beneath the surface. The brief bursts of snow have been enough to coat lanes, reducing traction with little warning.
Wind Gusts Reduce Visibility and Road Safety
Adding to the challenge, west winds gusting between 25 and 35 mph are blowing snow across roadways, at times lowering visibility. These gusts can quickly shift snow back onto cleared lanes, making conditions unpredictable for drivers.
Major travel corridors affected include I-70, I-71, I-75, and U.S. Route 33, where snow showers may briefly reduce visibility and create slick patches. Transportation officials are urging motorists to slow down, increase following distances, and allow extra travel time during the morning hours.
Slick Conditions Expected to Linger Into Midday
Snow showers are expected to taper off later this morning, with conditions gradually improving by late morning to noon. However, lingering cold air means slick spots may persist longer on shaded roads, ramps, and less-traveled side streets.
Road crews continue treating major routes, but untreated areas may remain hazardous even after snowfall ends. Drivers are advised to remain cautious, especially when transitioning between wet and icy pavement.
Cold Night Raises Black Ice Concerns
While daytime snowfall diminishes, the cold is far from over. Temperatures will struggle to rise much today before dropping sharply again tonight. Overnight lows are expected to fall into the low 20s, increasing the risk of black ice forming as melted snow refreezes.
Parking lots, residential streets, driveways, and highway ramps are particularly vulnerable to refreezing after sunset. Even areas that appear clear during the afternoon could become slick again overnight.
Weekend Weather Brings Temporary Relief
Conditions improve noticeably on Saturday, offering a calmer stretch for errands and local travel. Skies turn partly sunny, winds ease, and temperatures rebound into the mid-40s, helping remaining ice melt.
Sunday brings a return to colder air, with sunshine but highs only near 34°F, keeping a winter chill in place. While no significant precipitation is expected Sunday, refreezing remains possible during the early morning and evening hours.
Christmas Travel Outlook: Watching the Pattern
Looking ahead to Christmas travel, forecasters are monitoring a developing winter pattern across the region. While no widespread hazardous weather is expected at this time, forecast models suggest temperature swings next week, which could allow rain to transition to snow at times as colder air moves back in.
Travelers planning holiday trips are encouraged to stay updated on the latest forecasts, as even small shifts in timing or temperature could impact road conditions during peak travel periods.
Five-Day Ohio Weather Outlook
Saturday: Partly sunny, high 45°F
Sunday: Sunny, high 34°F
Monday: Partly sunny, high 38°F
Tuesday: Rain possible, high 48°F
Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, high 51°F
Safety Tips for Drivers This Morning
Transportation officials recommend the following precautions during slick conditions:
- Reduce speed and avoid sudden braking or sharp turns
- Increase following distance
- Use extra caution on bridges, overpasses, and ramps
- Watch for refreezing after snow showers end
- Keep headlights on during periods of reduced visibility
What Comes Next
While snowfall amounts remain minor, the quick freeze and gusty winds are enough to make this morning’s commute hazardous in parts of central Ohio. Conditions should steadily improve by midday, but refreezing tonight could bring renewed slick spots.
Drivers are urged to remain alert, check local road conditions before traveling, and adjust plans as needed during this winter weather stretch.
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