OHIO — Parts of Ohio could see strong to severe thunderstorms on Thursday, though the overall threat for widespread severe weather remains uncertain, according to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center.
Forecasters say Ohio is included in a broader area where thunderstorms are possible through Thursday night. While much of the state is expected to see general thunderstorms, northern Ohio could experience a few stronger storms if conditions become favorable.
The Storm Prediction Center said forecast models continue to show uncertainty regarding storm development across the Lower Great Lakes. However, strengthening winds in the middle levels of the atmosphere could support organized thunderstorms, including isolated supercells, if enough daytime heating and instability develop.
The primary severe weather threats in Ohio would be damaging wind gusts and hail with the strongest storms. While the current forecast does not indicate a widespread severe weather outbreak, forecasters noted that the threat could increase in later outlooks if weather conditions become more favorable.
The highest risk for severe weather on Thursday is expected farther west across parts of Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas and eastern Colorado, where a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) has been issued. Those areas could see damaging winds, large hail and a couple of tornadoes.
Ohio residents are encouraged to stay aware of changing weather conditions and monitor updated forecasts throughout the day, as the timing and strength of any thunderstorms could change.
