Friday started gray and sticky in Cincinnati, with mostly cloudy skies and a cool, muggy 59°F reported at Lunken Field (KLUK) in the early hours. By daybreak, widespread showers and scattered thunderstorms were marching across the Tri-State, setting up a wet and likely sluggish morning commute. A Flood Watch remains in effect for parts of the metro, and forecasters warn that locally heavy downpours could quickly trigger brief urban and creek flooding.
Morning Downpours, Heaviest Late Morning Into Tonight
Rain showers are most likely between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m., with showers and thunderstorms expected to linger through the afternoon and continue overnight. The high should reach near 68°F. New rainfall amounts of three-quarters of an inch to around one inch are possible, with the better chance for the heaviest totals in the late-morning and overnight windows, according to the National Weather Service.
Where Flooding Is Most Likely
Forecasters say the main axis of heavy rain is expected to set up along and southeast of I-71, where already moist soils make flash flooding a more realistic concern. Narrow swaths of higher rainfall totals could develop within that corridor, which would raise the odds for quick water rises in low spots and small streams. We covered the developing risk in an earlier roundup, so see our earlier roundup for background on neighborhoods that have already taken a beating from repeated rain this week.
Plan For A Wet Commute
Drivers should be ready for ponding on low-lying streets, reduced visibility in heavier downpours, and slower travel during both the morning and evening rush. Build in extra time, take it easy on the gas pedal, and do not try to plow through standing water, which can be deeper than it looks. If you have outdoor plans or events on the books, consider moving them inside or rescheduling, and follow the latest forecasts and municipal traffic alerts through the evening in case conditions change quickly.
Weekend Outlook
The unsettled pattern hangs around into the holiday weekend. Saturday is expected to be cooler with a high near 78°F and scattered showers. Sunday should turn warmer, around 83°F, with showers and thunderstorms likely by mid-afternoon. Memorial Day Monday also carries a continued chance of showers and storms, so anyone planning cookouts or trips to the pool will want to keep an eye on updated forecasts before heading out.
