The threat of severe weather remains in the “enhanced” risk (level 3 of 5) for all of northern Ohio, according to a 2:15 p.m. update from the Wood County Emergency Management Agency
It is expected storms to begin forming around 4 p.m.; 5-7 p.m. will be the anticipated timeframe for the strongest thunderstorms. The tornado threat has increased 5-9%, which is considered very high, as well as the possibility for supercell storms to form.
Expected wind speeds have increased to 70 mph and large (golf ball sized) hail is an increasing concern. Wood County is also under a “marginal” risk for excessive rainfall which could bring torrential rainfall at times.
If possible, we recommend not being outside and/or driving during these storms unless necessary. If you will be exposed to the elements out of necessity, have a plan for action should the conditions become threatening or deteriorate.
Outdoor Warning Sirens Reminder
Based on recent events in Northwest Ohio, the EMA is reminding everyone that outdoor warning sirens are meant to be heard only outdoors, at a maximum distance of 1-2 miles. Ambient noise (traffic, wind, lawnmowers, headphones, power tools, etc.) may affect the ability to hear them.
Outdoor warning sirens are a legacy system (old, WWII era re-purposed air raid sirens) that still has a place in warning those outside to seek additional information.
However, other methods of notification are more specific in giving you exact information of what, when, and where the issue is. Many of these other warning systems also take into consideration your exact location and proximity to the event. This valuable information can help you make the best, most well-informed decision you can. The outdoor warning siren only tells that something is going on, not other important details.
It is also important to note that there is also no standard on how sirens are used.
Wood County has three zones which are activated based on the location of the event. Lucas and Ottawa counties activate the entire county regardless of location, some counties sound them for severe thunderstorms, while some counties do not have sirens at all.
The EMA recommends always having multiple ways to receive emergency alerts: CodeRED (the county’s mass notification system), NOAA Weather radio, media apps, TV and other safety/weather phone apps (FEMA, the Weather Channel, radarscope, etc.).
