Columbus, OH – Patchy fog settled over central Ohio early today, creating low visibility for drivers beginning their Thanksgiving travel. Headlights cut through a dim, milky haze across interstates and rural roads, while cooler pavement added a slick sheen for the morning commute. Early travellers along I-70, I-71, and Route 33 experienced shifting pockets of reduced visibility as fog drifted across valleys and open fields.
Morning Conditions Slow Down Early Travel
The National Weather Service reports that morning fog is expected to lift through midmorning, but visibility may fluctuate quickly until then. Drivers are urged to reduce speed, leave extra space between vehicles, and be prepared for sudden changes in visibility when approaching bridges, curves, and overpasses. Once the fog clears, skies turn cloudy, but winds stay light enough to maintain stable midday conditions for travellers.
Rain Arrives Friday, Bringing First Major Travel Concern
Friday marks the first notable weather slowdown for the region as rain becomes more likely after 1 p.m. According to meteorologists, steadier rainfall is expected by Friday night, potentially affecting evening traffic across Columbus and surrounding counties. While widespread flooding isn’t anticipated, roads may become slick, and heavier bursts of rain could momentarily reduce visibility for drivers heading into the holiday weekend.
Saturday Offers a Clear Window Before Bigger Weather Pattern Shifts
Saturday looks like one of the more favourable travel days, with mostly sunny skies and slightly cooler temperatures around 50°F. Despite the cooling trend, air temperatures stay well above freezing, eliminating the risk of icy mix or wintry precipitation in central Ohio.
Forecasters, however, continue to monitor what they describe as a developing “Winter Tease” across the central and eastern United States. As noted in long-range weather discussions from the National Weather Service, an expanding cold pattern could introduce snow potential in parts of the Midwest, Appalachians, and interior Northeast between November 25 and December 3. Travellers heading through major hubs such as Chicago, Detroit, Indianapolis, or Cleveland should keep an eye on updated alerts, as even moderate snowfall can disrupt flight schedules.
Sunday Remains Mild Before Another Wet Stretch
Sunday maintains mild, sunny conditions, offering another ideal window for road and air travel before rain returns early next week. By Monday and Tuesday, the region may see renewed chances for rain as the next weather system pushes through Ohio.
Five-Day Travel Outlook
Friday: Rain develops in the afternoon; highs near 55°F
Saturday: Mostly sunny and cooler; highs near 50°F
Sunday: Sunny and mild; highs near 55°F
Monday: Isolated rain chances; highs near 52°F
Tuesday: Rain likely; highs near 50°F
Conclusion
Thanksgiving week has begun with a mix of fog, calm conditions, and incoming rain that could influence travel timing for many Ohioans. While fog caused brief complications this morning and Friday rain may slow down evening commutes, the weekend presents clearer skies before a potential cold-weather shift next week.
What do you think of this weather setup for the holiday week? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
