Central Ohio Braces for Severe Weather as Storms Approach

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Central Ohio is preparing for a forecasted round of severe weather on Monday, as the Storm Prediction Center has issued a weather alert. The storms are expected to develop after 3 p.m. and dissipate by 10 p.m., bringing with them a level one and two risk for severe weather.

The greatest threats are anticipated to be damaging winds and hail, with an isolated tornado potential lingering. However, significant flooding is not expected, as rainfall amounts will remain minimal, with some areas possibly receiving up to a half inch.

Temperatures in the region are expected to surge into the mid-70s by Monday afternoon, marking a stark contrast to the cooler weather projected for Tuesday. A quick-moving low-pressure system is responsible for this shift, which will bring a cold front through Central Ohio during the afternoon and early evening hours.

This cold front poses a level 2 out of 5 risk for severe weather across most of the region, especially between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m. Monday. Counties in the southeastern part of Ohio are particularly at risk, where an enhanced threat of damaging winds and a medium chance of hail and tornadoes exist.

“We are expecting a line of strong storms to form in our northwestern counties as early as 3 p.m. This line will then move southeastward,” Michael Behrens, a meteorologist with the 10 Weather Impact Team, stated. He also noted that by around 6 p.m., most of the severe weather threat would have moved past Columbus.

Preparations are crucial, as the storms are expected to primarily impact during daylight hours—a departure from recent weather events in the area. Behrens advised residents to remain vigilant, particularly in southeastern counties, where severe risks may rapidly increase as individual storm cells develop strength.

“If we see those cells intensifying, their individual severe risk could rise quickly. It’s important to stay updated through alerts,” Behrens added.

The 10 Weather Impact Team will continue to monitor the evolving situation and provide updates as necessary. Residents are encouraged to keep local news applications handy for timely notifications and safety recommendations as the storm approaches.