The heat is on! Sizzling 90s begin on Friday
Break out the shorts, shades and sunscreen – the next two days in Columbus could break high-temperature records set more than a half-century ago.
The National Weather Service says the average high temperature in Columbus this time of year is 75 degrees. But the high in Ohio’s capital city could climb to 91 on Friday, which would tie the record high of 91 degrees set in 1962.
“So we’re going to be a good 15 degrees above normal tomorrow,” said Jim Lott, a meteorologist with the Wilmington office of the National Weather Service.
Lott said humidity, or the amount of moisture in the air, will be moderate.
Saturday also will be hot with a predicted high of 91, just below the record of 92 degrees set in 1941.
Things are expected to cool off Saturday night and Sunday thanks to a cold front, Lott said, and Sunday’s high will be near 80 with the potential for showers and thunderstorms.
In the meantime, here are a few ways to beat the heat this weekend. Most pools, splash pads and “spraygrounds” in and around Columbus aren’t open yet, but there still are a few fun ways to stay cool.
Zoombezi Bay: The popular water park north of Columbus in Delaware County will open Saturday for a preview weekend, just in time for crowds looking to beat the heat. Located at 4850 Powell Road in the Powell area, the park boasts slides, funnels and other rides.
Alum Creek State Park Beach: The largest inland beach in the state park system at 3,000 feet, Alum Creek is more than a boater’s paradise. It offers a swimming hole that’s bigger than any pool in the city – and a sandy beach that’s perfect for making castles. There’s even a playground and, and if you feel like spending the night at the park’s campground, a special, smaller beach just for you.
Go underground: Head to one of two cave systems within a short drive of Columbus.
At Olentangy Caverns near Delaware, tours take visitors as deep as 105 feet underground. As strange as it may sound, you might want to bring a jacket, as the temperature down there is a constant 54 degrees. For more information, call 740-548-7917 or visit olentangyindiancaverns.com.
The other option is Ohio Caverns, in West Liberty in Logan County. Call 937-465-4017 or visit ohiocaverns.com. mtrombly@dispatch.com @Monroetrombly