04/14/2024
Severe Weather Alert: Enhanced Risk Today
Be prepared as there is an Enhanced Risk (Orange Area on Map) for severe thunderstorms across parts of East Central Ohio this afternoon and evening. We also have a Slight Risk (Yellow Area on Map) as well as a Marginal Risk (Darker Green Area on Map) this afternoon and evening. This severe weather event is expected to bring damaging wind gusts, hail, and the possibility of tornadoes
Early today, a warm front will move through, bringing warmer air and higher cloud cover. These conditions often precede severe weather.
Storm Initiation: Starting around 3 PM, expect thunderstorms to begin forming north of I-80. These storms are likely to grow in intensity as they track southward across the state. The most severe activity is anticipated in Eastern Ohio where atmospheric instability is heightened.
Today’s temperatures are unusually high, which helps to fuel the storms. Coupled with this heat, a plume of warm, moist air is rising from the south, contributing further to storm development. A combination of strong winds aloft and varying wind directions will encourage these storms to become more organized and potent as the day progresses.
The primary concerns with today’s storms will be damaging wind gusts and large hail. The atmospheric conditions are also right for tornado formation, particularly in areas where storms can remain isolated longer. Therefore, quick spinups are possible.
As these storms are expected to produce heavy rainfall in short periods, there's a real risk for flash flooding, especially in urban areas and regions with poor drainage.
The severe threat is expected to decrease in intensity after sunset as we lose the diurnal heating, but some isolated storms may still be present.
Stay alert and prepared. Have multiple ways to receive possible watches and warnings. I will keep you updated with the latest information as these weather conditions develop.