While a brief spell of mild winter weather led many to hope for an early spring, the groundhog may have been right all along. Buckeye Chuck’s prediction during the annual Groundhog Day festivities of six more weeks of winter seems to be more accurate as cold weather returns to Ohio this week.

A Winter Weather Advisory in Effect

The National Weather Service in Cleveland has issued a winter weather advisory starting Wednesday at 10 p.m. through Thursday at 10 a.m. This advisory covers a large portion of Ohio, including Richland, Ashland, and Knox counties. Residents in these areas should prepare for icy conditions and colder temperatures.

What to Expect This Week

Starting today, the weather will be cloudy with a high of 31°F, and east winds at around 9 mph. As the evening rolls in, freezing rain will begin to affect the region, particularly between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m. The rain will gradually change to regular rain after that time. Ice accumulations between one-tenth to two-tenths of an inch are expected, which could make traveling difficult.

If you’re planning to head out Thursday morning, be prepared for slippery roads. The freezing rain will ease up by the morning, but icy patches may still be a problem, especially during the commute to work or school. Temperatures will slowly rise into the 40s by early afternoon, which will help melt some of the ice.

Thursday and Beyond: The Forecast

Here’s a breakdown of the weather for the rest of the week:

• Thursday Night: Expect partly cloudy skies and a low of 23°F. Winds will be coming from the west at 16 mph.
• Friday: The day will be partly sunny with a high around 31°F. Expect northwest winds from 8 to 13 mph.
• Friday Night: Mostly cloudy, with temperatures dropping to around 23°F.
• Saturday: Expect rain or freezing rain after 1 p.m., with a high near 35°F. The chance of precipitation is high at 80%.
• Saturday Night: Rain will continue before 1 a.m., with temperatures dropping to around 26°F. The chance of precipitation remains at 80%.
• Sunday: Mostly cloudy skies with a high of 33°F.
• Sunday Night: Partly cloudy with a low of around 21°F.
• Monday: A sunny start with a high of 32°F.
• Monday Night: Mostly cloudy with a low around 20°F.
• Tuesday: Snow is possible, with a 40% chance of precipitation. Expect mostly cloudy skies with a high near 30°F.

Prepare for Winter’s Return

Despite the brief respite from the cold, it’s clear that winter is far from over. With freezing rain, ice, and chilly temperatures expected this week, make sure to stay updated on the latest weather reports and prepare accordingly, especially for morning commutes. Stay safe, bundle up, and keep an eye on the forecast for any changes.

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