Wilmington, Ohio – Residents across southwest and central Ohio should prepare for a round of thunderstorms Monday evening and overnight that could produce damaging wind gusts, heavy rainfall and localized flooding, potentially affecting the evening commute and overnight travel.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, scattered thunderstorms may develop late Monday morning and again during the afternoon before a more organized complex of storms moves south through the region Monday night. While confidence remains lower on the exact timing and track, forecasters say damaging straight-line winds will be the primary severe weather hazard.
The Storm Prediction Center has placed much of southwest and central Ohio, including Cincinnati, Dayton, Wilmington, Columbus and surrounding communities, under a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) for severe thunderstorms. Strong wind gusts could down tree limbs, cause isolated power outages and create hazardous travel conditions. Repeated rounds of rain may also produce localized flooding, especially in low-lying areas, along small streams and where storm drains become overwhelmed.
Drivers should be prepared for sudden reductions in visibility and water-covered roads Monday night. Never attempt to drive through flooded roadways, and be alert for rapidly changing weather conditions.
Residents are encouraged to have multiple ways to receive weather warnings, including Wireless Emergency Alerts, NOAA Weather Radio and trusted local media. Additional watches or warnings may be issued Monday as confidence in storm timing and intensity increases.
