Dangerous Cold Grips Dayton Through the Weekend

Extreme wind chills and sub-zero temperatures expected to continue in Ohio city.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 4:39am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Dangerously cold temperatures and wind chills are forecast to persist in Dayton, Ohio through the rest of the week and into the weekend. An Extreme Cold Warning is in effect until noon on Wednesday, with wind chills potentially falling to -20 degrees or lower. Frostbite could occur in less than 30 minutes, prompting officials to urge residents to dress warmly and limit time outdoors if possible.

Why it matters

The prolonged period of extreme cold poses serious risks to public health and safety, especially for vulnerable populations. Businesses and schools may need to adjust operations, and residents will have to take extra precautions to protect themselves and their pets from the dangerous conditions.

The details

Highs are only expected to reach the teens, with overnight lows plunging well below zero. Wind chills will make it feel even colder, potentially as low as 10 degrees below zero at times. A Cold Weather Advisory is in effect from 7 pm Wednesday until 11 am Thursday. The bitter cold is forecast to continue through at least Saturday, with some relief expected by early next week as temperatures rise above zero during the day.

  • An Extreme Cold Warning is in effect until noon on Wednesday, January 29, 2026.
  • A Cold Weather Advisory is in effect from 7 pm on Wednesday, January 29 until 11 am on Thursday, January 30, 2026.

The players

Dayton, Ohio

The city in western Ohio that is experiencing the dangerous cold spell.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Weather forecasters will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as the cold front moves through the region.

The takeaway

Residents of Dayton must take extreme precautions to protect themselves from the life-threatening cold temperatures and wind chills expected to last through the weekend. Limiting time outdoors, dressing in warm layers, and checking on vulnerable neighbors will be crucial during this prolonged cold snap.