Columbus, Ohio – Thunderstorms capable of producing 60 mph winds and large hail are moving across eastern and central Ohio Monday afternoon, with nearly three dozen counties under a Severe Thunderstorm Watch until 10 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, Watch #401 includes major population centers such as Columbus, Akron, Canton, and Youngstown, spanning from Ashtabula County near Lake Erie down to Scioto County near the Ohio River. The primary threats are strong wind gusts, frequent lightning, and isolated hail up to an inch in diameter.
Franklin, Licking, Stark, and Summit counties are among the hardest hit areas as of 3 p.m., with radar indicating clusters of fast-moving storms tracking northeast at 35 to 45 mph. Downed limbs and localized power outages have already been reported in portions of Pickaway and Guernsey counties.
Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, avoid unnecessary travel, and monitor local alerts. Utility companies across the region have ramped up storm response crews in anticipation of outages. Drivers on I-70, I-77, and U.S. Route 23 should prepare for rapidly changing conditions and potential debris on the roads.
Storm activity is expected to taper off by late evening, but additional watches may be issued if conditions persist.
