The National Weather Service in Wilmington has extended a severe thunderstorm warning for parts of Franklin, Delaware, and Licking counties until 9:15 p.m. Sept. 9.
The weather service said that a severe thunderstorm was located near Westerville at 8:27 p.m., moving east at 45 mph. The storm was bringing 60 mph wind gusts and the weather service warned of damage to trees and power lines. Locations expected to be impacted included Columbus, Westerville, Reynoldsburg, Gahanna, Worthington, Pataskala, Johnstown, Minerva Park, Beechwood Trails, Easton, Summit Station, Granville South, Etna, New Albany, Jersey, Galena, Alexandria, Hartford, State Route 310 at State Route 161, and Clintonville, the weather service said.
What is a severe thunderstorm warning?
A Severe Thunderstorm Warning
is issued when a storm is occurring or about to occur with winds of 58 mph or higher or hail one inch in diameter or larger, the National Weather Service says. These storms can also bring heavy rain and, in some cases, flooding or flash flooding.
Tips for staying safe during thunderstorms
- Once inside a shelter, stay away from windows and avoid using electrical equipment or plumbing.
- Keep a battery-powered weather radio nearby in case of power loss.
- Secure loose objects outside, as they can become dangerous during high winds.
- Bring pets inside, and if time allows, make sure fences are secure to prevent pets from escaping or running away.
Also, remember lightning can travel several miles from a storm, so hearing thunder means you're within striking distance. The common advice from experts is "When thunder roars, go indoors."
How to stay safe around lightning
If indoors:
- Stay off corded phones, computers and other electrical equipment that puts you in direct contact with electricity, according to the NWS.
- Avoid plumbing, including sinks, baths, faucets and even toilets, if you can.
- Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches.
- Do not lie on concrere floors or lay against concrete walls.
If in a vehicle during a thunderstorm:
- Ensure all windows are fully closed.
- Refrain from touching radios, ignition systems, or any metal parts connected to the vehicle's exterior.
- Stay inside the vehicle until at least 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder.
This is a breaking news story. Check back at Dispatch.com for more updates.
Reporter Shahid Meighan can be reached at smeighan@dispatch.com, at ShahidMeighan on X, and at shahidthereporter.dispatch.com on Bluesky.
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Severe thunderstorm warning issued for central Ohio counties
