Columbus is heading into the final weekend of the Ohio State Fair, and those attending may want to keep an umbrella nearby. Showers and thunderstorms are expected to interrupt parts of the weekend.
The National Weather Service in Wilmington is forecasting multiple chances for storms Aug. 7-8, with heavy rainfall and the potential for flooding among the primary concerns. Conditions are expected to improve by Aug. 9, when sunshine and temperatures approaching 90 degrees return to central Ohio.
The unsettled weather comes as the Ohio State Fair enters its final weekend. The fair runs through Aug. 9 at the Ohio Expo Center and State Fairgrounds in Columbus.
Here's what to expect from the weather in Columbus this weekend.
Will it rain in Columbus on Aug. 7?
Showers and thunderstorms are
likely throughout the day Aug. 7, with a 70% chance of precipitation during the day.
The National Weather Service forecasts a high near 87 degrees, with storms most likely before 4 p.m. and additional showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 5 p.m.
Rainfall totals are generally expected to range from one-tenth to one-quarter of an inch, though thunderstorms could produce higher amounts.
Storm chances increase to 80% overnight, when showers and thunderstorms are expected mainly before 2 a.m. Temperatures will fall to around 70 degrees.
The National Weather Service's hazardous weather outlook for central Ohio says locally heavy rainfall that could lead to flooding is the primary concern.
Will it storm this weekend?
Saturday could provide some dry stretches, particularly during the morning and early afternoon, but another round of storms could affect afternoon and evening plans.
There is a slight chance of showers before 8 a.m., followed by a 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m. Otherwise, skies will be partly sunny with a high near 87 degrees.
Rain and storm chances increase to 60% the evening of Aug. 8 before gradually decreasing overnight. The low will be around 68 degrees.
Aug. 9 is shaping up to be the best day of the weekend for outdoor plans − and for anyone hoping to catch the Ohio State Fair before it closes.
The National Weather Service forecasts sunny skies and a high near 88 degrees, with light winds during the afternoon.
Dry conditions should continue through much of the night. A slight chance of showers returns before storm chances increase after 2 a.m. Aug. 10.
The National Weather Service says intermittent showers and thunderstorms are possible through Aug. 12, with locally heavy rainfall and damaging winds among the primary threats.
Trending reporter Amani Bayo can be reached at abayo@dispatch.com.
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Storms could disrupt final Ohio State Fair weekend
