Flooding, power outages remain a concern in central Ohio

COLUMBUS (WCMH) – Tornado watches and warnings have subsided, but a heavy wave of rain Tuesday has increased the concern for flooding and power outages in central Ohio.

Columbus and Central Ohio Weather

Nearly three inches of rain fell in the Columbus area over the past three days and in some areas as much as four inches has fallen. Last night’s patch of storms added significant rainfall on already saturated ground, causing flood concerns, power outages and some damage throughout the region.

Scattered, light rain showers Wednesday afternoon and evening, as well as a possible wintry mix Thursday morning could keep flood threats activated longer.

FLOOD ALERTS

The National Weather Service issued a flood warning for lowland areas along Big Darby Creek in Franklin, Pickaway and Madison Counties. At 4 a.m. the flood stage was measured at 11.9 feet. At 12 feet, lowland flooding occurs, and the river is expected to crest at 12.1 feet Wednesday morning.

The NWS has issued flood watches and warnings for over a dozen counties in central Ohio. Alerts remain in the following areas:

• Coshocton County (10:45 a.m.)

• Crawford County (9 a.m.)

• Fayette County (9:30 a.m.)

• Guernsey County (10:45 a.m.)

• Hocking County (4 p.m.)

• Madison County (9:30 a.m.)

• Marion County (Thursday, 9 p.m.)

• Morgan County (Wednesday morning)

• Muskingum County (10:45 a.m.)

• Noble County (10:45 a.m.)

• Perry County (Wednesday morning)

• Vinton County (Wednesday morning)

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Locally, high water remains in areas of south Columbus, particularly the Greenlawn Avenue exit along Interstate 71 South and at U.S. Route 23 and Interstate 270, which are still closed, as well as parts of State Route 104.

Additionally, floodwalls installed along Greenlawn and Harmon avenues in Franklinton, west of Downtown, will not be moved until at least Wednesday afternoon, according to the City of Columbus. It’s the first time the walls have been activated since May 2020.

NBC4 meteorologists said that the Scioto River peaked early Wednesday morning at just under 24, one of its highest level in six years.

TURN AROUND, DON’T DROWN

At around 8 a.m. Wednesday, a motorist was forced to climb on top of a Maserati after the bottom was submerged in water at I-270 at US-23 in south Columbus. The roadway remains closed and is nearly completely covered in water from flooding.

FEMA issued a notice for its region that includes central Ohio. “Monitor local forecasts and prepare for the possibility of dangerous weather,” regional administrator Tom Sivak said. “Identify your safe shelter locations and remain vigilant–especially for potential power outages and dangerous road conditions caused by possible downed power lines and flooding.”

It included these tips:

• Follow the direction of local and state officials and make sure to sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts. If your community has sirens, become familiar with the warning tone.

• Identify nearby, sturdy buildings close to where you live, work, study and play. Pay attention to weather reports and warnings and be ready to take shelter immediately, if necessary.

• Make sure all mobile devices are fully charged in advance of the storm. Plan for batteries and other alternative power sources to meet your needs in case the power goes out, such as a portable charger or power bank. Have flashlights for every household member.

• Have a communications plan in place. Ensure everyone in your household knows where to go, what to do and how to reconnect after a disaster.

• Watch for fallen power lines and trees. Report them immediately.

• Do not walk, swim or drive through floodwaters.

• After the storm and once you are safe, check on neighbors and friends to make sure they’re okay.

POWER OUTAGES

As of 12:30 p.m. American Electric Power is reporting over 13,000 power outages in central and southern Ohio, with the majority of the outages coming from southeastern counties.

Approximately 11,000 are being reported in Lawrence County with an additional 2,000 coming from Adams County. Scioto County (147) and Gallia County (156) are also reporting several outages.

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Officials advise residents to pack a back with anything you will need in an emergency, including bottled water, non-perishable food, medications, batteries, flashlights, and other necessities. They say to have your phone charged ahead of time and have a portable charger available if possible.

AEP Ohio typically updates its outage map every 15 minutes. Check the outage map below.

THE DOUBLE RAINBOW

Those seeking reprieve from the effects of Tuesday’s storms and prior inclement weather in central Ohio were granted a site only seen in perfect conditions.

Stunning images from a double rainbow were captured by NBC4 journalists across the Columbus area, including at Lower.com Field, where the Crew game against UANL Tigres in a Champions Cup game was temporarily placed on hold due to lightning.

Dave Mazza, chief meteorologist of Storm Team 4, said the timing was perfect for a double rainbow, which is more common than a single rainbow when the conditions are right just before sunset.

WEATHER UPDATES

Stay weather aware with Storm Team 4 through live radar, weather alerts, closings and delays, live road conditions and push notifications from our NBC4 apps.

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