Severe weather conditions are sweeping across the Midwest, with tornado watches and severe thunderstorm warnings issued for several states, including Ohio, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania. As of April 3, 2025, the National Weather Service has cautioned residents to remain vigilant as storms continue to develop and move through the region.
In Ohio, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect for Ashtabula, Carroll, Coshocton, Geauga, Lake, Mahoning, Portage, Stark, Summit, Trumbull, and Tuscarawas counties until 7 a.m. This watch is accompanied by a Flood Watch that extends through Sunday, April 6, 2025, due to multiple rounds of rain and storms beginning on April 3.
Winds are picking up, with gusts reaching up to 40 MPH, creating potentially hazardous conditions. Overnight storms could be severe, particularly in western Ohio, where the Storm Prediction Center has issued an Enhanced Risk for severe weather. The most intense storms are expected to occur between 11 p.m. and 3 a.m., making it crucial for residents to stay informed and prepared.
Meanwhile, in the Pittsburgh region, tornado warnings were issued for northern West Virginia, including Cheat Lake, Westover, and Star City, effective until 5:15 a.m. on April 3. This alert also includes parts of Fayette and Greene counties in Pennsylvania. Earlier, a tornado warning was activated for parts of eastern Ohio and the West Virginia panhandle around 4 a.m., which expired shortly after.
As severe storms continue to impact the area, residents are advised to move to an interior room on the lowest floor of their homes and avoid windows during tornado warnings. The National Weather Service emphasizes the importance of preparation and vigilance during such severe weather events.
In Cincinnati, thunderstorms began rolling in late Wednesday, April 2, 2025, and are expected to persist into early Thursday morning. The National Weather Service in Wilmington has issued a tornado watch for virtually all of Greater Cincinnati, which includes Northern Kentucky and Southeast Indiana. This watch is set to expire at 4 a.m. on April 3. Additionally, a flood watch is in effect until 8 a.m. on Sunday, April 6, due to saturated soils that could lead to flooding in low-lying areas.
Severe storms are projected to hit the Greater Cincinnati region around 1 a.m., lasting for approximately one hour. Meteorologists anticipate heavy downpours, damaging winds, and the possibility of tornadoes and hail during this time. After the storms pass, residual thunderstorms and showers are likely to continue, tapering off by roughly 6 a.m.
Governor Andy Beshear of Kentucky has declared a state of emergency ahead of the anticipated severe storms. In a statement, he expressed particular concern for the high risk of tornadoes in western Kentucky. The governor’s executive order allows officials to coordinate an emergency response plan and mobilize the Kentucky National Guard as needed.
Beshear noted, “Remember, these can be strong tornadoes, EF-2 and greater. We’re really concerned about people’s safety, especially in the overnight, because when storms or tornadoes hit while people are asleep, that’s sadly when we’ve lost the most people. So, everybody out there, be really careful.”
As the storms continue to develop, residents are urged to prepare for emergency situations. The National Weather Service recommends having multiple ways to receive weather alerts, such as NOAA weather radios and local emergency management alerts. It is vital to have a safe place prepared ahead of time, with flashlights and emergency supply kits ready to go.
Looking ahead, Friday, April 4, 2025, is expected to be a rainy day with some storms, high temperatures reaching around 61 degrees. On Saturday, April 5, rain and rumbles are anticipated with highs near 70 degrees. Sunday will bring rain showers and a significant drop in temperatures, with highs only reaching 49 degrees.
The weather forecast indicates that after a brief lull, more rain is expected late Thursday into Friday, as additional moisture moves into the area. This pattern of unstable weather is likely to persist, with temperatures fluctuating as a stronger cold front approaches early next week.
As communities brace for the ongoing severe weather, officials remind everyone to stay alert and prepared. With conditions changing rapidly, those in affected areas should remain informed through reliable weather sources and heed any warnings issued by the National Weather Service.
In summary, severe thunderstorms and tornado warnings are affecting multiple states, with Ohio, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania on high alert. Residents are encouraged to take precautions, stay informed, and prepare for potential emergencies as the storm system continues to move through the region.
