COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — Central Ohio is bracing for one of the strongest winter storms in years, with forecasts predicting significant snowfall and hazardous travel conditions starting Sunday afternoon and lasting through Monday evening. A Winter Weather Advisory is already active for counties north of I-70, including the Columbus metro area, and counties south of I-70 are under a Winter Storm Warning due to the anticipated heavy snow and ice accumulation.
The National Weather Service has warned residents to remain vigilant as this storm system approaches, bringing heavy snow and breezy conditions to the region. 'Take advantage of the calm before the snow,' meteorologists advised. The weather is expected to deteriorate throughout the day with clouds increasing and temperatures reaching the mid to upper 20s before plunging overnight.
By midday Sunday, snow showers are anticipated to begin impacting southwest Ohio, eventually spreading across southern counties as the day progresses. Forecasters note there may be periods of freezing rain and sleet mixed with the snowfall, creating treacherous conditions for drivers. Heavy snow will likely extend along the I-70 corridor later in the evening, resulting in travel challenges and reduced visibility.
Snow accumulation is forecasted to be substantial. Areas north of Delaware should expect between 2 to 4 inches of snow, with the I-70 corridor facing 4 to 6 inches. Southern Franklin and Madison counties may even see higher totals as forecasts are adjusted closer to the event. The more southern regions facing the warning are projected to receive anywhere from 5 to 8 inches, with potential for even greater extremes depending on localized conditions.
Looking at the timeline, the snow is expected to taper off by Monday afternoon, though isolated snow showers may linger. With overnight temperatures expected to fall to the low 20s, the snow will stick around, aggravate travel issues, and pose risks on roads as temperatures remain below freezing throughout the week. "Give plows plenty of space to work" is the advisory, as snow removal efforts are anticipated to be intense and necessary.
Temperatures following the storm may drop significantly, with highs on Wednesday and Thursday projected to be only around 20 degrees, and overnight lows dipping to single digits. Wind chills could push temperatures even lower, which exacerbates already dangerous conditions.
The extended forecast indicates another weather system will move through the area late Friday, potentially bringing additional snowfall. The National Weather Service indicates, "Conditions favor another winter storm event within the next 48 hours after this initial system calms down." This means residents will need to stay weather aware not only throughout this storm but potentially through the next weekend as well.
With the ground already frozen and this extreme weather event on the horizon, Central Ohio officials urge everyone to use caution, plan accordingly, and stay updated through local news and weather sources. Making travel plans soon is important to avoid being caught on the roads during severe conditions.