Columbus, Ohio – Headlights cut faintly through a blanket of gray this morning as dense fog settles across central Ohio, reducing visibility and creating early travel concerns for drivers heading out around Columbus. Conditions are expected to evolve through the day, with more impactful weather arriving late this weekend.
Fog Advisory and Morning Travel Conditions
According to the National Weather Service office in Wilmington, a Hazardous Weather Outlook is in effect for much of central Ohio due to patchy dense fog lingering from the early morning hours into early afternoon. Visibility may drop to around one mile or less at times, particularly near rivers, low-lying areas, and open farmland surrounding the Columbus metro area.
Drivers traveling along I-70, I-71, and I-270 may encounter sudden visibility changes. Officials recommend using low-beam headlights, reducing speed, and allowing extra following distance during the morning commute.
Conditions Improve Later Today
As the fog gradually lifts later this afternoon, cloudy skies will persist across the region. Temperatures are expected to rise into the upper 50s, helping road conditions improve as surfaces dry out. While visibility should steadily increase, motorists are urged to remain cautious until fog fully dissipates.
A Quiet Saturday Before the Pattern Shifts
Saturday brings a brief break in active weather. Skies remain mostly cloudy, with highs near the upper 40s, closer to seasonal norms for late December. Travel conditions are expected to be generally favorable throughout the day.
Rain and Unseasonable Warmth on Sunday
By Sunday, the weather pattern turns more dynamic. Showers return across central Ohio as temperatures surge into the mid-60s, an unusually warm setup for this time of year. Periods of rain could lead to wet and slick roads, especially during heavier bursts, impacting weekend travel plans.
Strong Winds Sunday Night Into Monday
The most significant concern arrives Sunday night into Monday as a powerful system moves through the Ohio Valley. Forecasters are monitoring the potential for strong wind gusts exceeding 40 mph.
These winds may be strong enough to:
- Bring down tree limbs
- Cause isolated power outages
- Create hazardous conditions for high-profile vehicles, especially on open roadways
Residents are advised to secure loose outdoor items and prepare for possible travel disruptions.
Turning Colder as New Year’s Week Begins
As New Year’s week 2026 gets underway, colder air moves in quickly behind the system. Temperatures will drop sharply, increasing the risk of slick spots during early mornings if leftover moisture freezes. While snow is not currently guaranteed, the rapid temperature change will be important for commuters to monitor.
What Residents Should Do
Weather officials stress the importance of staying alert as late-December patterns can shift quickly. Checking updated forecasts, planning extra travel time, and preparing for wind impacts will help reduce risk over the coming days.
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Columbus, Ohio
- Today: Dense fog early, then cloudy, highs near 60°F
- Saturday: Mostly cloudy, highs near 48°F
- Sunday: Showers likely, unusually warm, highs near 65°F
- Monday: Windy with rain, turning cooler, highs near 40°F
- Tuesday: Partly sunny and colder, highs near 30°F
Driving through fog this morning or dealing with strong winds Sunday night? Share what conditions look like in your area in the comments below.
