Update: Central Ohio Slight Risk Now Official After Watch Chatter — SevereWX

Update: Central Ohio Slight Risk Now Official After Watch Chatter

Following our earlier heads-up on possible severe thunderstorm watches across central Ohio today, the Storm Prediction Center (SPC) has now issued a Slight Risk for Saturday, August 22. This covers the Columbus area, signaling a setup for isolated severe storms this afternoon and evening.

A Slight Risk indicates a lower-end severe weather probability, where scattered thunderstorms could produce isolated instances of damaging wind gusts around 60 mph or larger hail—think quarter-size or bigger in spots. While tornadoes aren't the main player here, a brief spin-up can't be ruled out in stronger cells. This threat is tied to a pocket of instability and wind shear pushing east from recent Midwest action.

No widespread severe weather is expected, but if you're near Columbus, keep an eye on radar. Monitor your local National Weather Service office for any watches or warnings, and make sure your severe weather plan is ready—know where to shelter and charge your devices.

Stay ahead of it: Check the latest AI-powered forecast for Columbus, OH. We'll keep tracking as storms develop.