OHIO — The National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center has placed much of western and central Ohio under a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) for severe thunderstorms Thursday afternoon into early evening.
Forecasters say a strong storm system moving from the Plains into the Midwest will bring the potential for damaging winds, large hail and a few tornadoes to portions of the lower Ohio Valley, including Ohio.
Storm Setup
A strengthening area of low pressure is expected to track toward the Great Lakes by early Friday. As the system approaches, moisture will increase across Ohio while strong winds aloft create favorable conditions for organized severe storms.
Although moisture levels are not expected to be exceptionally high, forecasters say daytime heating combined with cooling temperatures in the mid-levels of the atmosphere will allow storms to become unstable enough to produce severe weather.
Wind speeds in the upper levels of the atmosphere are forecast to exceed 100 mph, creating strong wind shear. That shear could support rotating thunderstorms, or supercells, capable of producing large hail and isolated tornadoes.
Storms are expected to develop to the west and move quickly eastward into Ohio during the afternoon hours. Some storms could intensify rapidly as they track across the state.
Potential Impacts in Ohio
If storms develop as expected, impacts could include:
- Damaging wind gusts capable of downing trees and power lines
- Large hail that may damage vehicles and roofs
- Isolated tornadoes
- Scattered power outages
While forecasters indicate that instability will be somewhat limited, the strong wind energy in the atmosphere increases the likelihood that storms that do form could become severe.
Storm intensity is expected to gradually weaken later Thursday evening as atmospheric support shifts east.
How This Could Affect Schools
Because the highest risk window falls during the afternoon and early evening, storms could coincide with school dismissal times across Ohio.
If tornado warnings or severe thunderstorm warnings are issued during dismissal, school districts may need to:
- Shelter students in place until storms pass
- Delay bus departures
- Cancel after-school sports and activities
- Consider early dismissal if forecast confidence increases
In addition, any widespread power outages or storm damage Thursday evening could result in delayed openings or closures Friday morning in affected areas.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed throughout the day Thursday and have multiple ways to receive weather alerts.
