Columbus, Ohio – A tornado warning has been issued by the National Weather Service for Union and Delaware counties in central Ohio, as a large storm front moves east-southeast. The storm is traveling just north of Marysville towards the Delaware city area.
Tornado sirens have been activated in Delaware County, where the warning includes Delaware city and remains in effect until 9:45 p.m. Additionally, large hail has been reported along with this storm front.
The NWS has stated that the threat of a few tornadoes is “likely,” with scattered wind gusts reaching up to 70 mph. There is also a possibility of scattered hail “up to tennis ball size.”
A tornado watch remains in place for the rest of central Ohio, covering Franklin, Licking, Fairfield, Pickaway, and Madison counties.
Residents in west-central and northwestern Ohio have been cautioned by the NWS to be vigilant about storms approaching from Indiana.
Earlier on Thursday afternoon, southern Indiana and north-central Kentucky experienced at least three confirmed tornadoes, causing damage to numerous structures. The tornadoes were confirmed to have struck near Hanover and Marion in Indiana, as well as near Milton in Kentucky.
The tornado watch comes shortly after Ohio was hit by nine tornadoes just over two weeks ago, with significant damage reported in various counties. Cleanup and restoration efforts are still underway in Madison, Franklin, and Licking counties.
Understanding the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning is crucial for residents to stay safe during severe weather. A tornado watch indicates that tornadoes are possible in a designated area, prompting individuals to review emergency plans and identify safe shelter locations. In contrast, a tornado warning means that a tornado has either been spotted or indicated by weather radar, signaling imminent danger to life and property. Residents are advised to seek shelter in an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building and avoid windows in such situations.