WILMINGTON, Ohio – A multi-day weather event is bearing down on southern Ohio, with severe thunderstorms expected Sunday night, strong winds through Monday, and a late-season arctic blast set to drive temperatures into the teens by Tuesday night, according to the National Weather Service in Wilmington.
The NWS says that the most threatening conditions are expected between 11 p.m. Sunday and 4 a.m. Monday. Strong to damaging wind gusts are the primary concern, but forecasters say a tornado or two cannot be ruled out. The greatest severe weather risk is forecast to remain near and west of Interstate 75, though the eastward extent of storm instability remains uncertain.
Residents in Ross, Scioto, and Pickaway counties should also expect gusty winds independent of thunderstorm activity. Peak gusts in the Chillicothe area Sunday are forecast in the 35–40 mph range, with Portsmouth and other regional locations seeing gusts around 30–35 mph.
Sunday’s storm system will usher in a sharp cold snap behind it. The NWS warns that very cold air will filter into the region Monday and persist through Tuesday night, with lows expected to dip into the teens both nights.
Forecasters are urging residents with sensitive vegetation — particularly plants already in early growth or bloom — to take protective measures before early next week. Light snow showers are also possible during the day on Monday.