Columbus receives around 1,020 mm (about 40 inches) of rain a year, fairly evenly spread across the seasons, with spring and summer bringing the most active convective thunderstorm activity typical of the wider Ohio Valley. The Scioto and Olentangy rivers running through the city have a documented flood history, most notably the catastrophic 1913 flood that reshaped the city’s approach to flood control for the following century. Faster-moving summer storms, sometimes severe, are a separate and more routine hazard capable of flash flooding specific streets. Because these two risks operate on different timescales, radar is most useful for tracking the faster local storms. NWS Doppler radar KILN (Wilmington, OH) covers the region.
Learn more: How Does Rain Radar Work? · Open the full Rain Map
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it raining in Columbus right now?
The live radar map above shows precipitation over Columbus, Ohio in real time. Blue shades indicate light rain, while yellow, orange, and red mark heavier downpours. If no colored echoes appear over Columbus, no significant rain is currently being detected.
How often does the Columbus rain radar update?
The radar refreshes continuously, typically every few minutes, so the map reflects current conditions rather than an hours-old forecast. Press play to animate the most recent frames.
Can I see if a storm is heading toward Columbus?
Yes. Press play on the radar to animate the last few hours of rainfall and watch which way rain cells over Ohio are moving – the clearest way to judge whether a shower will reach Columbus or pass by.
Is this Columbus rain radar free to use?
Yes, completely free – no account, app download, or sign-up required. It works in any browser on desktop and mobile.