The National Weather Service has increased the risk of severe weather according to a Thursday news release by the Wood County Emergency Management Agency.
As of 9 this morning, all of Wood County south of U.S. 6 is under a “slight” risk for severe weather. Central and western Ohio have been upgrade to an “enhanced” risk for severe weather.
While a few showers may develop as early as 2-3 p.m., the main threat of severe weather will be between 4-7 p.m. These storms will be capable of producing wind gusts up to 50-60 mph. There is also a chance for large hail and very slight chance of an isolated tornado.
“For many of us, the timing of 4-7 p.m. will be during peak travel hours on the road. We encourage everyone to monitor conditions and have a plan should a thunderstorm warning be issued during the time of your commute,” the EMA stated.
This type of weather activity is rare for Northwest Ohio in January, but one tornado warning has already been issued this year in southeast Ohio.
“Severe weather can happen at any time, so be prepared,” the EMA stated.
