Ohio State University - Weather

Quick Stats

College Prowler Take

Columbus has unpredictable weather, but the winter especially puts a damper on everyone’s spirit. There isn’t much to do while you’re stuck in the worst snowstorms. It can be very difficult to plan things in advance with the unstable climate, especially outdoor things. Weather can change dramatically even during a single day—it’s not uncommon for a cool morning rain to give way to a warm, sunny afternoon, or vice versa. The word “inconsistent” is the best way to sum up OSU’s climate.

Weather may be one of the major things you’ll need to accustom yourself to—especially if you’re coming from a warm climate. Don’t be surprised if you have to trek to class through the snow on many winter mornings. Remember to buy a warm jacket, and if you really need it, stock up on thermal underwear. Everyone agrees that you must be prepared for anything Mother Nature can throw at you, because around Columbus, she likes to mix things up. Huge temperature changes can happen in a single day, too, so the key word for clothing is “layers.” Aside from the initial 4–5 months of winter weather, however, there is nothing but sunshine and rain; the climate can be beautiful, especially if you’re staying over the summer. Take plenty of vitamins, though—your immune system will need all the help it can get adapting to the weather changes. Some years back, Ohio State received so much snowfall that classes were actually cancelled for a day for the first time in over 20 years. To hammer home the point of unpredictability—the year before, it only snowed once.

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Students Speak Out

BuckeyeGirl says: Ohio State University 2016 Communication and Journalism

When it comes to Ohio weather,... When it comes to Ohio weather, Mother Nature is bipolar. 12345 Weather: April 27, 2009 Report

Anonymous says:

The weather is really strange. It... The weather is really strange. It could rain at a moment’s notice—which isn’t always a bad thing. I remember having to go along with some little picnic of my girlfriend’s one time, but just as I was about to force one of her terrible sandwiches down my throat the rain totally crashed down and ruined her parade. It was wickedly awesome, but I felt a little bad afterwards. 12345 Weather Report

Anonymous says:

It’s Ohio—bring everything. You... It’s Ohio—bring everything. You never know what you’re going to get. 12345 Weather Report

Anonymous says:

Ohio can never seem to decide on a... Ohio can never seem to decide on a weather pattern. Bring all types of clothes: long sleeves, short sleeves, heavy and lightweight pants. You can never be too prepared; you will need all types of clothes here. 12345 Weather Report

Anonymous says:

You could be wearing your... You could be wearing your triple-thick jacket in the morning and trying to catch some UV rays later on in the afternoon. It’s that crazy! 12345 Weather Report

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