Watch Worthington firefighters train in ice rescue techniques
The Division of Fire & EMS carries specialized cold-water equipment that allow personnel to work on the ice or in the freezing water to rescue people.
Handout: City of Worthington
- A freeze warning was issued for central Ohio as temperatures dropped into the low 30s.
- The average last freeze in Columbus typically occurs around April 18, but can happen as late as early May.
- Frost can still form even when temperatures are above freezing, with the latest recorded instance in Columbus being June 11, 1972.
A freeze warning was in effect across central Ohio April 20 as temperatures dipped into low 30s, bringing a reminder that winter’s grip can linger well into spring.
The warning, which lasted until 10 a.m. April 20, raised concerns about frost and freezing conditions that could damage plants and other sensitive vegetation, as well as how long the cold may stick around this spring.
A frost advisory was also issued for other parts central Ohio from 11 p.m. the evening of April 20 through 10 a.m. on April 21.
Here’s what we can expect from winter-like temperatures this spring.
How long will cold temperatures last in Columbus?
The average last freeze of the spring season in Columbus— which is when temperatures hit 32 degrees — typically occurs around April 18, according to the National Weather Service in Wilmington.
Still, that date can vary widely.
“Historically, the last freeze can happen anywhere from April 4 to May 5,” NWS meteorologist Ashley Novak said.
Even after the final freeze, frost can still occur under the right conditions — meaning cold mornings aren’t necessarily over once temperatures stay above 32 degrees.
“You can still see frost with temperatures around 38 degrees if skies are clear, winds are light and there’s enough moisture,” Novak said.
How late has frost hit Columbus?
While freezing temperatures usually end by early May, frost has been recorded much later in the season.
The latest instance of temperatures at or below 38 degrees, conditions that can support frost, occurred on June 11, 1972, Novak said.
Late-season frost events are also expected to occur sometime in May this year, Novak said.
How long will cooler weather last?
This week’s cold snap may be brief, but it’s not necessarily the last taste of cooler weather this spring.
Monday morning was expected to be the coldest point in the immediate forecast, with temperatures rebounding into a warmer pattern shortly after, Novak said.
However, that warmth won’t be consistent.
Forecast outlooks show temperatures trending below normal at times over the next several weeks, especially in late April and early May.
“We’re getting into a pattern where temperatures come in waves,” Novak said. “It doesn’t mean it will stay cold continuously, but we will see periods of cooler weather mixed in.”
Despite those swings, the overall outlook for the season still leans warmer than normal, Novak said.
What to watch for
With fluctuating spring temperatures, Novak said it’s important to stay alert for additional frost or freeze conditions in the coming weeks.
“Keep an eye on the weather for any frost and freeze potential,” Novak said.
Trending reporter Amani Bayo can be reached at [email protected].
