by COLUMBUS, OH — After a stretch of calm and sunny days, Central Ohio is gearing up for a major weather shift midweek. While Monday and Tuesday will feature pleasant fall weather, a strong storm system is expected to bring widespread rain and gusty winds by Wednesday, followed by a sharp drop in temperatures just in time for Halloween weekend.
Dry Start to the Week
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, high pressure will dominate the region through Tuesday, keeping skies mostly clear and conditions mild.
- Monday: Sunny skies with highs near 63°F and a light east breeze around 10 mph.
- Tuesday: Similar conditions early in the day, but clouds will increase by afternoon as a powerful fall front approaches from the Mississippi Valley.
By late Tuesday night, southeast winds will strengthen, signaling the system’s arrival and bringing the first light rain showers into the Columbus metro area.
Wednesday Brings Widespread Rain
Midweek will bring a return of wet weather across much of Central Ohio. Rainfall totals could exceed half an inch, with some areas seeing heavier bursts during the morning and midday hours.
East winds will increase to 20–25 mph, leading to slower commutes and reduced visibility along the I-70 corridor. Temperatures will remain in the mid-50s for much of the day before cooling into the 40s by evening as the system exits the region.
“This will be one of those classic fall transitions — rain, gusty winds, and a noticeable chill right behind it,” said the National Weather Service.
Crisp, Dry Weather for Halloween
By Thursday and Friday, skies will clear as cooler, drier air settles over Ohio. Sunshine will return, but temperatures will dip below seasonal norms.
- Thursday: Clearing skies, highs around 51°F, and a light northwest breeze.
- Friday (Halloween): Ideal trick-or-treat conditions with clear skies, calm winds, and evening temperatures in the upper 40s.
Read Also: Southern California Heat Advisory Issued as Inland Temperatures Near 95°
While the week ends on a chilly but pleasant note, forecasters say this pattern signals the start of a colder trend heading into early November.
Early Signs of Winter Ahead
Long-range models are hinting that the first lake-effect snow showers could develop across northern Ohio as temperatures continue to fall next week. Although Columbus isn’t expected to see snow just yet, residents should prepare for frosty mornings and colder daytime highs heading into November.
Five-Day Forecast for Columbus, OH
- Mon: 63° / 42° – Sunny; calm breeze.
- Tue: 60° / 44° – Sunny start; clouds late.
- Wed: 55° / 44° – Rain likely; breezy and cool.
- Thu: 51° / 42° – Clearing; crisp air returns.
- Fri: 52° / 40° – Clear and cool; perfect trick-or-treat evening.
Are you ready for the Halloween chill or hoping for a few more warm fall days? Share how you’re preparing for the midweek rain and cooler weekend on race-day-live.com.
