Ohio residents should brace for a wild weather rollercoaster this weekend, as forecasters warn of heavy rain, flash flooding, a sudden temperature drop, and accumulating snow. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued flood watches, winter weather advisories, and wind chill warnings, urging residents to prepare for rapidly changing and hazardous conditions. The storm will start with soaking rains on Saturday, bringing the risk of flooded roads and rising waterways. Then, as Arctic air surges in on Sunday, temperatures will drop more than 20 degrees in just a few hours, causing rain to switch to snow and creating treacherous icy roads.
Saturday: Heavy Rain and Flash Flooding Possible
The weekend kicks off with widespread heavy rain, as a powerful system sweeps across the state. Flooding is a major concern, particularly in low-lying areas and along rivers.
- Columbus: Rainfall totals could reach 1-2 inches, causing water buildup on roads. High: 44°F (7°C), low: 33°F (0°C).
- Cleveland: Steady rain throughout the day, with possible localized flooding. High: 40°F (5°C), low: 34°F (1°C).
- Cincinnati: Heavy downpours, strong winds, and flood risks. High: 44°F (7°C), low: 33°F (0°C).
Residents in flood-prone areas should have an evacuation plan and avoid driving through flooded roadways, as even 6 inches of moving water can sweep a car away.
Sunday: Temperature Plunge, Ice, and Snow Take Over
As the storm intensifies, Arctic air will rush in, sending temperatures into a freefall and rapidly turning rain into snow. The sudden freeze could create dangerous ice-covered roads, making travel extremely risky.
- Columbus: Rain changing to snow in the morning, with 1-3 inches of accumulation possible. High: 37°F (3°C), plunging to 16°F (-9°C) at night.
- Cleveland: Windy and colder, with rain transitioning to snow. High: 37°F (3°C), low: 20°F (-7°C).
- Cincinnati: Flash freeze expected, as temperatures crash from the mid-30s°F to the teens°F in just a few hours. Expect light snow and icy conditions. High: 37°F (3°C), low: 16°F (-9°C).
Black ice will be a major hazard, as standing water on roads freezes quickly, making highways and sidewalks dangerously slick.
Monday: Bitter Cold and Lingering Snow Showers
By Monday, Ohio will be firmly locked in a deep freeze, with wind chills making it feel even colder.
- Columbus: Windy and frigid, high of 26°F (-4°C), low of 13°F (-10°C).
- Cleveland: Bitter cold with lake-effect snow possible, high of 21°F (-6°C), low of 10°F (-12°C).
- Cincinnati: Dry but icy cold, high of 26°F (-4°C), low of 13°F (-10°C).
Wind chills as low as -15°F could make outdoor exposure dangerous, increasing the risk of frostbite and hypothermia.
How to Stay Safe During This Weather Event
With flooding, snow, and extreme cold expected, here’s how to stay safe:
- Avoid Flooded Areas – Never drive or walk through floodwaters. Turn around, don’t drown!
- Prepare for Flash Freezing – If traveling on Sunday, expect roads to become icy within hours. Drive cautiously.
- Bundle Up – Wind chills could reach dangerous levels, so wear layers, gloves, and a hat to prevent frostbite.
- Check on Vulnerable Individuals – Elderly residents, pets, and those without proper heating are at serious risk. Make sure they are safe.
- Stock Up on Essentials – Power outages are possible. Keep batteries, blankets, and food supplies ready.
This is not just another winter storm—it’s a multi-phase weather event that could bring widespread flooding, icy roads, power outages, and life-threatening cold. Stay indoors, stay warm, and stay informed. This storm has the potential to be deadly for those unprepared—take action now!