The Wood County Emergency Management Agency has issued the following advisory:
The National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center has upgraded the severe weather potential in Wood County to an “Enhanced Risk” (Level 3 of 5) for this afternoon. The primary concern in this update is anincreased potential for damaging wind gusts up to 70 mph, with more than a 10% chance of gusts exceeding 74 mph.
Forecast Highlights:
- This Evening: Conditions will remain dry.
- Late Tonight (11 PM – 12 AM): A stronger line of thunderstorms is expected, bringing:
- Wind gusts of 60–65 mph
- Large hail (up to 2 inches)
- The possibility of an isolated tornado
- After 4 AM: Drier conditions are expected to return.
- Rainfall totals are forecasted between 0.25–0.40 inches.
- Tomorrow: Mostly dry through the afternoon before another potential round of storms.
Preparedness Reminders:
Nighttime storms are especially concerning due to decreased visibility and the likelihood that many are asleep. Please take the following steps to ensure readiness:
- Stay informed: Use multiple methods to receive emergency alerts, such as:
- CodeRED (Wood County’s Mass Notification System)
- NOAA Weather Radio
- Emergency apps and local media
- Sign up for CodeRED here
- Be ready for power outages: Keep flashlights accessible in sleeping areas.
- Know your safe place: Identify a secure location in your home or building to shelter.
- Secure outdoor items: Bring in or tie down anything that could become a hazard in high winds.