Record Heat Precedes Windy Weekend and Severe Thunderstorm Threat
CANTON, Ohio — Residents can expect a windy weekend following what may be record-high temperatures on Friday. The National Weather Service’s Pittsburgh office has issued warnings about a strong low-pressure system impacting the region, bringing gusty winds and a potential for severe thunderstorms on Saturday afternoon and evening.
The weather service announced, “Damaging wind will be the main hazard but hail and tornado threats remain possible.” Wind gusts are expected to reach as high as 29 mph on Saturday, while additional showers may occur with gusts up to 24 mph on Sunday.
Forecasters are monitoring local communities, including Zanesville and New Philadelphia, for possible record highs on Friday. The record temperature for March 14 in Zanesville is 80 degrees, set in 1990, with a forecast high of 81 degrees for this Friday. As of 3 p.m., the temperature was recorded at 78 degrees.
New Philadelphia’s record is also set at 78 degrees from 1990, with the forecast calling for a tie at that temperature. The thermometer there indicated 77 degrees Friday afternoon. Meanwhile, Coshocton is also eyeing a record, with its historical high of 80 degrees potentially being surpassed as the temperature hit 78 degrees by 3:30 p.m.
Despite the warm weather, there are warnings of a downside. According to the National Weather Service, “The combination of above-normal temperatures, minimum relative humidity values ranging from 20-30%, and gusty winds between 15-20 mph will result in elevated fire danger this afternoon and evening.”
The agency cautioned that any ignition source could quickly escalate into a serious fire situation given the gusty conditions, urging residents to avoid outdoor burning. For safety reasons, Ohio law prohibits outdoor burning from March 1 to May 31 between the hours of 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.
This afternoon’s weather remains mostly sunny with a high near 76 degrees and a south wind around 9 mph. Tonight is expected to be partly cloudy with lows around 58 degrees. Saturday could bring showers and the possibility of a thunderstorm before 11 a.m., transitioning to likely showers in the afternoon. The forecast suggests a high near 71 degrees, with south winds gusting up to 29 mph and an 80% chance of precipitation.
Saturday night will see showers and occasional thunderstorms, with a low around 58 degrees. There is a 100% chance of rain, with new rainfall amounts between half an inch and three-quarters of an inch expected.
On Sunday, showers are primarily forecasted before 2 p.m. with temperatures peaking around 64 degrees. Southwest winds can be expected at 10 to 13 mph, with gusts up to 24 mph. The chance of precipitation is also set at 80%, with new precipitation totals potentially reaching between a quarter and half an inch.
Officials continue to monitor the situation as the low-pressure system approaches, and residents are advised to stay updated on emerging forecasts and take necessary precautions against severe weather.
