Columbus, OH – Residents across southern and central Ohio could face strong thunderstorms capable of damaging wind gusts late Sunday night as a powerful storm system moves across the Ohio Valley.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, much of southwest and central Ohio, including Cincinnati, Dayton, Wilmington, and Columbus, is under a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) for severe weather Sunday night. The main concern will be damaging straight-line winds, although isolated stronger storms could develop within the line.
Storms are expected to develop along a cold front moving east across the Midwest and push into Ohio late Sunday night. The strongest storms will likely move through western Ohio first before spreading toward central Ohio overnight.
Drivers traveling along Interstate 70, Interstate 71, and Interstate 75 could encounter sudden downpours and gusty winds if storms intensify as they move through the region.
While widespread tornado activity is not currently expected, forecasters say isolated stronger storms cannot be ruled out, particularly if storms organize into a stronger line during the overnight hours.
Residents should monitor forecasts Sunday evening, secure loose outdoor items, and ensure they have weather alerts enabled on mobile devices in case warnings are issued overnight. Additional severe thunderstorm watches may be issued as the system approaches Ohio.
