A Flash Flood Watch is in effect for all of east-central Ohio through Monday. Excessive rainfall is likely over the next 48 hours. The threat of flooding, as well as river and stream flooding, is high.
The stage is set for a significant rain event over the next 48 hours as the remnants of a Gulf tropical system interact with a stationary front in southern Ohio. Copious amounts of moisture are expected to ride northeast along the front bringing the potential for excessive rainfall over the region. All models have come into very good agreement and the probability is high for a possible record rain event.
The ground is already moistening up this morning with light rain showers falling. The light rain will continue over the region for much of the day and into this evening. Much heavier rainfall will arrive tonight and continue into Sunday. We can expect amounts of 3 to 5 inches across the area tonight through Sunday night. Higher amounts will be possible in any embedded thunderstorms.
The threat of low-land flooding, as well as river and stream flooding, is high. If you live in a flood-prone area, now is the time to make preparations for possible flooding. The heaviest amounts of rainfall are poised to occur in central portions of Ohio. NWSWPC rainfall potential over the next 48 hours
IMPORTANT NOTE: Amounts in the projection above may be higher than the forecast but it does depict the idea of a somewhat higher chance for higher rainfall amounts in the east-central Ohio region.
Another potential problem will come from wind. Gusts in the 20 to 30 mph range will develop as the system crosses. With saturated ground looking like a good bet, trees will be prone to be uprooted which could lead to power outages.
Rain will finally begin to taper off Monday as the whole system lifts northward. Even as rain ends early in the week, rivers will continue to rise as runoff from feeder streams continues to flow. The Tuscarawas may remain high into next week.
TUSCARAWAS RIVER
Current model ensemble projections anticipate minor to moderate river flooding along the Tuscarawas River.
SUMMARY
- There is a high potential for excessive rainfall over the next 48 hours
- There is a high potential for moderate low-land flooding
- There is a high potential for moderate river and stream flooding
Remain weather aware over the next 48 hours. Be especially vigilant if you live near the river or your area is prone to flood. Updates will be posted when/if conditions change, but plan on a ton of rain tonight and Sunday.
TURN AROUND, DON’T DROWN
