Winter Storm Landon could bring heavy snow, freezing rain to Columbus
Rejoice, winter lovers — but be careful!
Those who have been hoping for a big snowstorm this season may soon get their wish. Greater Columbus could see between 1 and 6 inches of snow Thursday and part of Friday, said Nate McGinnis, a meteorologist for the National Weather Service in Wilmington.
Winter Storm Landon is part of a bigger weather system that will impact multiple states Tuesday through Thursday, from Colorado to Michigan. Much of northern and central Ohio — including Columbus — already are under a winter storm watch, while parts of northwest Ohio are under a winter storm warning.
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However, there will be a messy mix of wintry precipitation before the snowfall, McGinnis said.
The storm will begin as rain Wednesday and then switch over to freezing rain early Thursday morning. By Thursday afternoon, the area is expected to get a mix of freezing rain and sleet.
The storm should change over to snow by Thursday evening, with the system clearing out by Friday morning, McGinnis said.
The meteorologist said the snow totals are not definite, as the storm is still days away.
“Columbus to even somewhere like Fort Wayne (in Indiana), you have a difference between one inch and 18 inches,” McGinnis said. “It could really be that big of a difference.”
He continued, “If colder air arrives a little bit sooner, that’s going to mean more snow for Columbus. If the warm air holds on a little bit stronger across Columbus, that’s going to mean more rain and potentially freezing rain and no snow at all.
“It’s at least looking like somebody somewhere in the vicinity of Ohio and Indiana, they’re going to receive a significant winter event.”
The winter storm watch for central Ohio from the Wilmington office of the National Weather Service will last from Wednesday afternoon through Friday morning.
“Power outages and tree damage are likely due to the ice,” it states. “Travel could be nearly impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning or evening commute.”
Meanwhile, the temperatures before the storm will begin above average. Wednesday’s high will be around 44 degrees with a low of 35. Thursday’s high is expected to be 37 degrees, with temperatures only getting up to 22 on Friday.
Micah Walker is the Dispatch trending reporter. Reach her at [email protected] or 740-251-7199. Follow her on Twitter @micah_walker701.
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