The National Weather Service has upgraded Columbus and parts of central Ohio to a winter storm warning, increasing the expected snow accumulation total to 5-7 inches through 1 a.m. Saturday.
Up to 8 inches is possible in isolated areas affected by the warning, which include Franklin, Delaware and Licking counties in central Ohio.
The storm warning also includes eastern Indiana and western Ohio, with heavy snowfall on both sides of the west-to-eastbound Interstate 70 corridor.
The National Weather Service had originally forecast up to 4 inches of snow in central and southern Ohio under a winter weather warning issued earlier. But heavy, steady snowfall — which has been falling in central Ohio since about 2 p.m. — prompted the agency to revise its forecast upward and switch to a storm warning.
“You're definitely going to accumulate snow, and the amount and location depends on where you are,” NWS meteorologist Steve Hrebenach said.
With temperatures in the low to mid 40s, roads are expected to get cold enough “that there will probably be slick spots as we head into the night,” Hrebenach said.
A similar forecast earlier this week produced no accumulation in Columbus, with rain moving to southern Ohio. This time, Hrebenach said, “It's happening.”
What is the difference between a winter storm warning, a watch, and a warning?
The NWS and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Agency (NOAA) warn of winter weather in three categories: warnings, watches, and advisories (although there are also subcategories that can be used). Here's what each means:
- Consultancy: A less severe winter weather event is imminent. It is intended to highlight hazardous weather conditions that can lead to life-threatening situations if care is not taken, and is usually issued six to 18 hours before the weather event.
- He watches: There is potential for a major or hazardous weather event to occur (and it could become a warning). The watch is usually issued 12 to 48 hours before a weather event.
- warning: A major or hazardous weather event is imminent. Warnings are usually issued six to 18 hours before a weather event.
In preparation for winter weather once again, road crews in central Ohio applied brine across the area Thursday, especially on bridges and overpasses that can freeze more easily than pavement that retains heat.
What's the forecast for the rest of the weekend?
The National Weather Service expects a 100% chance of rain tonight with overnight lows in the low 20s. Northwest winds may push 10 mph, creating wind chills that will make the outside temperature “feel” in the mid to upper teens.
Saturday is expected to be partly sunny, with a high near 29 degrees and winds reaching 28 mph later in the day, bringing serious wind chills.
Sunday will see temperatures rise to nearly 40 degrees. Winds will continue to blow, but will shift from the southwest.
dnarciso@dispatch.com
