March 12, 2026, 9:51 p.m. ET
- A high wind alert has been issued for much of central Ohio for March 13.
- Gusts of wind may reach 60 mph, leading to potential power disruptions and fallen trees.
- Counties under this warning include Franklin, Delaware, Licking, Madison, and Union.
The National Weather Service office in Wilmington has released a high wind warning for a significant portion of central Ohio, valid for March 13 from daybreak into the evening. Residents are cautioned to prepare for wind gusts that could reach up to 60 mph.
This warning encompasses Franklin, Delaware, Licking, Madison, and Union counties, commencing at 5 a.m. on March 13 and concluding at 8 p.m., according to the weather service. Forecasters anticipate consistent southwesterly winds ranging from 25 to 35 mph, with gusts potentially hitting 60 mph.
These powerful winds could lead to downed trees and power lines, and may cause unsecured outdoor objects to become airborne. Extensive power interruptions are anticipated, and operating high-profile vehicles is expected to be challenging, as stated by the weather service.
This elevated wind alert follows a series of thunderstorms on March 11 that largely spared Columbus and a significant portion of central Ohio from serious harm. Those storms had also prompted a tornado watch, a wind advisory, and a flash flood warning for Pickaway, Fayette, and Ross counties.
Columbus Weekend Weather Outlook
Friday, March 13: Expect partly sunny skies, with temperatures peaking around 56 degrees. It will be windy, with southwesterly winds between 26 and 35 mph, and gusts potentially reaching 60 mph. Overnight, conditions will be partly cloudy with a low near 31, and breezy northwest winds of 15 to 20 mph diminishing to 7 to 12 mph past midnight. Gusts could still hit 37 mph.
Saturday, March 14: The day will be mostly cloudy, with a high temperature hovering around 51 degrees. Winds will be light and variable, shifting to easterly at 5 to 7 mph in the morning. The night will remain mostly cloudy, with a low temperature of approximately 42 degrees.
Sunday, March 15: It will be mostly cloudy and blustery, with the high reaching close to 69 degrees. During the overnight hours, rain is expected, primarily after 2 a.m. on Monday, with a low temperature around 33 degrees. There is a 90% probability of precipitation.
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