If you’re planning to drive on I-70 this afternoon, buckle up—literally and mentally. Meteorologists are warning that strong showers and thunderstorms are expected ato hit Columbus around 3PM on Tuesday, just as the roads begin to fill with post-work traffic. These aren’t your friendly summer sprinkles—forecasters are pointing to downpours heavy enough to blind drivers, trigger slowdowns, and turn your commute into a crawling hazard zone.
While the day may start warm and partly sunny, the skies over Central Ohio are expected to take a sharp and sudden turn by early to mid-afternoon. The culprit? A moisture-packed frontal boundary moving into a hot, unstable air mass—a perfect setup for quick-hitting but potent storms.
WHEN TO EXPECT THE WORST OF IT
The latest models suggest the first line of showers could bubble up between 12PM and 2PM, with heavier thunderstorms building quickly by 3PM. That timing is especially dangerous—not just because of traffic—but because conditions can go from clear skies to blinding rain in minutes.
Thunderstorms may not last all night, but the impact window between 3PM and 6PM could bring:
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Sudden pockets of heavy rainfall
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Frequent cloud-to-ground lightning
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Winds gusting over 30–40 mph
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Temporary flooding in low-lying areas along highways like I-70
WHY I-70 COULD BE A MAJOR PROBLEM SPOT
I-70 is a key traffic artery in and out of Columbus, especially during the late afternoon rush. It’s low-lying in some stretches, especially near exits and underpasses, where water pools quickly when drainage can’t keep up.
Drivers can expect:
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Reduced visibility: Especially on bridges or near trucks kicking up spray
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Hydroplaning risks: Sudden puddles can send cars veering
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Brake-light chain reactions: Traffic may slow sharply without warning
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Confused, distracted drivers: Always a recipe for fender benders in storm conditions
REAL SAFETY TIPS FROM LOCAL EMERGENCY OFFICIALS
If you’re driving during storm hours:
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Turn your headlights on early. It’s not just a visibility issue—it’s state law when using wipers.
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Slow down—seriously. Hydroplaning starts at just 35 mph in standing water.
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Avoid flooded lanes. Even a few inches can stall a vehicle or worse.
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Keep both hands on the wheel. Sudden gusts can swerve your car if you’re not alert.
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If lightning flashes nearby, stay in your car. It’s safer than stopping under a tree or overpass.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE STORM?
Once these cells pass through, Columbus should see partly clearing skies by the evening hours. However, roads may stay slick until late tonight, and leftover mist and moisture could lead to patchy fog early Wednesday morning.
The rest of the week is looking better: Wednesday and Thursday bring sunshine, with highs climbing back into the mid-80s. But this won’t be the last of the summer storms—another round could arrive by the weekend.
THE TAKEAWAY FOR TODAY: STAY WEATHER-AWARE
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Storms are expected to hit Columbus by 3PM Tuesday
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I-70 is a major risk zone during peak traffic hours
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Prepare for traffic slowdowns, blinding rain, and possible power flickers
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If you can avoid driving between 3–6PM—do it. If not, stay sharp and plan for delays
This is a quick-hit weather event, but it could cause big problems in a short time. A few minutes of rain in the wrong place at the wrong time can back up roads for hours. Be smart, stay dry—and check the sky before you turn that key.
