The Storm Prediction Center has issued a Tornado Watch for all of Northeast Ohio on Wednesday.
The following counties are under a Tornado Watch until 5 p.m.:
- Ashland
- Ashtabula
- Carroll
- Cuyahoga
- Erie
- Geauga
- Holmes
- Huron
- Lake
- Lorain
- Mahoning
- Medina
- Portage
- Richland
- Stark
- Summit
- Trumbull
- Tuscarawas
- Wayne
Gusts of 70 mph are possible.
When News 5 goes live with severe weather coverage today, you can watch here:
The storms building across the watch area will need to be closely monitored. As they build in Northeast Ohio, they will go through changes. That means the storms will weaken and strengthen in a cycle over the next couple of hours.
Storms could be strong or severe with damaging wind gusts, hail, and lightning. The biggest threat will be heavy rain that could lead to flooding, with multiple rounds expected. When they arrive here, they could still be strong. We'll be sure to monitor the radar.
Each round today has a shot at wind damage from gusts over 60 mph, and isolated tornadoes are not off the table either. Be weather aware all day, and be sure to have multiple ways to receive storm warnings, such as the News 5 app.
Here's what the difference is between a weather Watch vs Warning
RELATED: Here's what the difference is between a weather Watch vs Warning
What comes to mind when you hear "Watch" or "Warning?" Those words are often misunderstood. But what's the difference between a Severe Thunderstorm Watch and a Severe Thunderstorm Warning? Or a Tornado Watch and Tornado Warning? Here's what you need to know.
WATCH: A Watch means that the weather conditions are favorable for developing a particular weather event, such as a severe thunderstorm, tornado, or winter storm. A watch is issued when the event is possible but not yet imminent. You should be aware of the POTENTIAL for a severe weather event. This is when you stay updated on the latest weather information and make your plans to stay safe.
Warning: A warning means that the weather event is either imminent or occurring and poses a significant threat to life and property. Warnings are issued when the event is expected to happen, and people should take immediate action to protect themselves and their property. For example, if a tornado warning is issued, you should take shelter immediately in a safe location, such as a basement or interior room away from windows.
Think of it this way: When making food at home, such as tacos, you get out all the ingredients and set them on the counter. It's not yet a taco...no taco has been formed. This is like a WATCH. The ingredients are there, but the severe weather is not yet. Once the tacos are assembled, sauced up, and served piping hot, they are ready to eat! That's just like a WARNING. The storms that have formed are ready to eat anything in their way.
Want the latest Power of 5 weather team updates wherever you go? Download the News 5 App free now: Apple|Android
Click here to view our interactive radar.
Follow the News 5 Weather Team:
Trent Magill: Facebook & Twitter
Katie McGraw: Facebook & Twitter
Phil Sakal: Facebook & Twitter
Allan Nosoff: Facebook & Twitter
