Fog black ice and a warmup ahead what Columbus should expect this week

Courtesy:WBNS 10TV

Residents across Columbus began the new week under thick fog that reduced visibility across roads, neighborhoods and major routes. A Dense Fog Advisory is in effect for much of Ohio through late morning, giving drivers good reason to take extra time on the roads. Early morning temperatures hovering near freezing have created areas of black ice, especially in spots where rain washed protective salt off pavement the day before.

According to the weather team at WSYX, the morning is shaping up to be one of the most challenging periods of the day. Visibility has been low enough in some locations to cause slowdowns on highways and local routes as commuters navigate slick roads and cold, damp air.

Monday brings fog, ice and a mild finish

The first day of the week brings two contrasting weather moments. The morning features dense fog and refreeze concerns, but conditions gradually improve as midday approaches. Clearing skies later today will bring partly cloudy conditions and a high near 52 degrees, offering a noticeably milder feel by late afternoon.

The combination of rising temperatures and light south winds will help dissipate the morning fog, though drivers and pedestrians are urged to stay alert for slick patches through the late morning.

Monday night sets up more patchy fog

Temperatures are expected to fall into the mid-30s overnight with increasing areas of patchy fog. Light winds will persist, and the humid evening air may contribute to reduced visibility again by early Tuesday. While black ice risk decreases slightly with warmer pavement, isolated slick areas remain possible.

Tuesday warms into the mid-50s under cloudier skies

Tuesday continues the gradual warming trend. Morning fog returns before skies transition to mostly cloudy conditions for the rest of the day. Highs should reach around 56 degrees, supported by steady southerly breezes. The drier atmosphere will help keep rain away until midweek.

Wednesday becomes the warmest day of the week

Midweek delivers the most dramatic change. Temperatures rise to around 64 degrees, marking the warmest day of the forecast period. Skies remain mostly cloudy with occasional light rain showers possible throughout the day. A rumble of thunder cannot be ruled out as winds increase from the southwest at 15 to 20 mph. The shift will be noticeable for anyone outdoors, with gusts and humidity creating a spring-like feel.

Thursday brings daytime clouds and heavier rain late

Thursday sees continued warmth with highs near 62 degrees. Light winds accompany mostly cloudy skies during the day with a few scattered showers early. The atmosphere grows more active in the evening, with heavy rain likely to develop and continue into the early hours of Friday.

Friday stays windy with cooling temperatures

Friday shifts cooler with a high around 58 degrees, accompanied by strong southwest winds that may exceed 25 mph at times. Clouds dominate the day and leftover rain from the overnight system gradually tapers off. While temperatures remain above average, the change signals the beginning of a cooler stretch.

Weekend temperatures drop with a wintry mix possible

The weekend looks colder compared to the mild midweek run. Saturday remains mostly cloudy with a high near 46 degrees and the possibility of a few rain showers during the afternoon. By Sunday, highs fall into the upper 30s with a chance for light precipitation that may transition into a wintry mix. The shift marks the start of a colder pattern as the region approaches the end of February.

As the week unfolds, Columbus residents can expect a balance of mild temperatures, changing cloud cover and shifting rain chances, making morning fog and slick surfaces the main early-week hazards before rain and wind take over midweek.

Source: WSYX