OHIO — A tornado watch and a severe thunderstorm watch have been issued for parts of the Miami Valley as strong storms are expected to move through the region Thursday night.
According to the National Weather Service, a tornado watch is in effect until 11 p.m. for Mercer, Auglaize, Shelby and Logan counties in western Ohio.
A separate severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for Randolph County in Indiana until midnight.
Meteorologists say the region is experiencing warm and windy conditions ahead of a strong cold front that is expected to bring showers and thunderstorms, some of which could become severe.
Forecasters have placed areas near and north of Interstate 70 under an enhanced risk level for severe weather. The greatest chance for tornado development is expected in northern parts of the Miami Valley, including areas from Celina to Bellefontaine, where atmospheric conditions are more favorable.
Storms are expected to move through in two waves, with the first round possibly arriving as early as 8 p.m. and carrying the highest tornado risk. Later storms are expected to bring damaging winds, large hail and heavy rainfall.
Rainfall totals of 1 to 3 inches are possible, with localized flooding a concern if storms repeatedly move over the same areas.
Officials urge residents to stay alert for changing weather conditions and ensure they have a way to receive warnings, especially overnight.
