Severe Thunderstorm Watch: Northern Ohio Braces for Damaging Hail

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect for southern counties of Northeast Ohio until midnight tonight, according to the National Weather Service. The watch includes the potential for localized flooding, hail, and gusty winds as temperatures cool following earlier highs this afternoon.

Several counties are currently under Severe Thunderstorm Warnings, including Tuscarawas, Carroll, Holmes, Stark, Richland, Ashland, and Wayne. A separate Severe Thunderstorm Watch covers Holmes, Tuscarawas, Stark, Summit, Portage, and Medina counties.

The greatest risk of severe weather is concentrated south of the lakeshore. Areas near Coshocton could experience temperatures reaching 85 degrees before the storms arrive, increasing storm energy. Conversely, locations along the lakeshore are expected to avoid severe storms, with fluctuating temperatures peaking in the 60s or low 70s before dropping to the 40s this afternoon, accompanied by heavy downpours.

The primary threat from these storms is large hail, potentially exceeding golf ball size. The National Weather Service attributes the likelihood of large hail to a significant temperature gradient created by the lake breeze.

The most intense period for severe storms is anticipated between 4 p.m. And sunset. Power of 5 Meteorologist Phil Sakal tracked storms across the area Sunday night, noting the potential for rapidly developing and severe conditions.

Viewer submitted footage has already documented hail storms in the region. The variability in weather conditions across Northeast Ohio underscores the importance of location-specific awareness, with southern areas facing a higher probability of severe impacts.