Breaking news! A Tornado Warning has been issued for Brown County in Ohio, and Mason and Bracken counties in Northern Kentucky, effective until 5:45 p.m. local time. If you reside within the red polygon depicted in weather maps, immediate action is crucial: seek shelter now!
Severe Weather Sweeping Across the Region
In addition to the tornado warning, a Severe Thunderstorm Warning is in effect for several counties in Ohio and Northern Kentucky. Affected areas include Brown and Clermont counties in Ohio, and Pendleton, Bracken, Robertson, and Mason counties in Northern Kentucky. This warning also remains valid until 5:45 p.m. Expect wind gusts reaching up to 60 mph with these storms.
Meteorologist Steve Raleigh tweeted: “Severe Thunderstorm Warning until 5:45pm for the area within the polygon. Winds to 60mph, torrential rain, frequent lightning. Moving NE 25mph.”
Rainfall and Potential Flooding
After a prolonged dry spell, showers and storms are persisting throughout the afternoon. The forecast indicates continued rainfall through Thursday. While this precipitation is welcome, it may not fully alleviate the ongoing drought in all areas. Some regions received only a trace of rain on Sunday, while areas east of I-75 accumulated nearly three-quarters of an inch.
Slight Risk of Severe Weather
Weather models indicate a slight risk of severe weather. Clusters of storms are likely to bring locally heavy rain, lightning, and strong wind gusts, potentially causing damage or power outages. Rainfall totals over the next 72 hours could range from 1 to 3 inches. Some areas are at risk of excessive rainfall and localized flooding.
Central Ohio Thunderstorm Warning
Separately, the National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm warning for central Ohio on Sunday, September 21st. The alert was in effect until 5:30 p.m. for Fairfield County and southwestern Licking County. Wind gusts of up to 60 miles per hour were possible, potentially damaging trees and power lines. Impacted locations included Newark, Lancaster, Reynoldsburg, and surrounding areas.
Strong thunderstorms were also expected in southeastern Franklin County and eastern Pickaway County, with wind gusts up to 45 miles per hour and pea-sized hail possible.
Stay Informed and Prepared
Be sure to monitor local news and weather updates for the latest information. Take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your property from potential storm damage.