Bitter Cold Grips Columbus as Major Weekend Winter Storm Looms

Frigid Conditions Sweep Through Central Ohio

Columbus residents are waking up to a dangerously cold atmosphere today, Friday, January 23, 2026. As the lead editor for columbus.news, I am tracking a significant weather shift that combines life-threatening cold temperatures with a looming winter storm set to arrive tomorrow. While the sun may make brief appearances through the cloud cover today, the primary story is the plummeting mercury and the brisk winds making it feel much colder than the actual thermometer reading.

Morning, Afternoon, and Evening Breakdown

Today’s forecast follows a downward trend in temperature, necessitating heavy winter gear for anyone heading outdoors. Here is what to expect throughout the day:

• Morning: The day started with temperatures near 20°F under mostly cloudy skies. However, wind chill factors have already pushed the "RealFeel" down to approximately 6°F. Commuters should be wary of any lingering icy patches on side streets from previous flurries.
• Afternoon: Temperatures will struggle to rise, peaking at a high of only 16°F to 21°F. Expect brisk winds to continue, maintaining a biting chill even during the brightest parts of the day. The chance of precipitation remains low at 10%, though the sky will remain largely overcast.
• Evening: Conditions will turn frigid as the sun sets. The temperature is expected to drop toward a low of 0°F overnight. Brisk winds will persist, making the air feel sub-zero and creating hazardous conditions for those without adequate shelter.

Critical Alerts: Cold Weather Advisory and Winter Storm Warning

Local authorities and meteorologists have issued several urgent notices for the Columbus area. A Cold Weather Advisory goes into effect at 6:00 PM this evening and will remain active until noon on Saturday. This advisory highlights the risk of frostbite on exposed skin and the potential for frozen pipes in residential areas.

Furthermore, the National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning starting Saturday morning. While today is primarily a story of extreme cold, a high-impact storm is expected to bring 8 to 12 inches of snow to Central Ohio between Saturday morning and Monday. Residents are encouraged to use today to finish any last-minute emergency shopping before travel becomes difficult to impossible tomorrow.

Safety and Preparation Tips

Given the "life-threatening" nature of the incoming cold air, the following precautions are recommended:

• Protect exposed skin if you must be outdoors; frostbite can occur in a short window during sub-zero wind chills.
• Ensure pets are brought indoors and have a warm place to sleep.
• Drip faucets and open cabinet doors to prevent pipes from freezing as the temperature hits the zero-degree mark tonight.
• Check on elderly neighbors and ensure their heating systems are functioning correctly.