Early morning flash flooding hit central Ohio after several days of heavy rain.
The National Weather Service issued a flood warning at about 4:45 a.m. Aug. 20 that remains in effect until 7:45 a.m. The warning applies
to Columbus, eastern Franklin County, southwest Licking County and northwest Fairfield County.
The weather service said 2-4.5 inches of rain have fallen during thunderstorms in the area, and 0.5-1.5 more inches could fall. Water rescues were underway in Pataskala, the weather service said.
People in affected areas should move to higher ground and avoid walking or driving into floodwaters, the weather service said.
[4:50 AM] Flash flooding is ongoing as heavy rain continues to fall over portions of Columbus and southwest Licking County. Water rescues are taking place in Pataskala. Be prepared to encounter flooded roadways as you travel this morning. pic.twitter.com/iGdcJu3W9f
— NWS Wilmington OH (@NWSILN) August 20, 2026
The Franklin County Sheriff's Office said a number of roadways and intersections are closed due to flooding, including:
- U.S. 104 between Dyer Road and Thraikill Road
- Innis Road and Cleveland Avenue
- Clark State Road and Babbit Road
- Johnstown Road and Stelzer Road
- Taylor Road and Havens Corners
- Feder Road and Alton Darby Creek Road
Public safety and breaking news reporter Bailey Gallion can be reached at bagallion@dispatch.com.
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Flood warning issued in central Ohio, with water rescues underway
