Columbus, Ohio – An upgraded risk for severe weather is set to impact central and northeast Ohio on Tuesday, putting the Columbus metro and surrounding areas on alert for large hail and damaging winds. The Storm Prediction Center has raised Tuesday’s threat from Slight to Enhanced, focusing on Franklin, Delaware, and Licking counties as primary concern zones.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, the most significant threat period runs from Tuesday afternoon through evening, as intense thunderstorms are expected to move across Columbus, Marysville, and Lancaster. Straight-line winds capable of downing trees and power lines, as well as hail up to the size of quarters, could cause hazardous travel on I-70, I-71, and U.S. 33.
Residents in Dayton, Chillicothe, and Portsmouth may see storms as well, though the greatest impacts target the northeast quadrant. Emergency managers urge Ohioans to secure outdoor items, monitor local alerts, and have multiple ways to receive warnings. Drivers should prepare for sudden downpours and avoid flooded roadways.
The severe weather risk remains in effect through Tuesday night, with additional advisories possible if the storm track intensifies. Stay tuned for updates as conditions evolve.
