Cincinnati is starting Tuesday with partly cloudy skies, temperatures near 79 degrees and humidity close to 89%. But the forecast quickly turns hazardous, with oppressive heat, repeated thunderstorms and a growing risk of damaging winds and flash flooding.
High temperatures should reach about 89 degrees, with heat index values near 100. Showers and thunderstorms have a 50% chance during the day, and rainfall could total three-quarters of an inch to 1 inch in some locations.
Flood Watch Covers Cincinnati Through Wednesday Morning
A Flood Watch is in effect through 8 a.m. Wednesday for Hamilton County and much of the surrounding region. The National Weather Service says several rounds of thunderstorms could repeatedly track over the same areas, raising the risk of flooding in creeks, streams, low-lying roads and other flood-prone spots.
Residents should avoid flooded roads, highway dips and underpasses, and never drive through water covering the pavement. Heavy rain could continue well into Wednesday morning, so even a lull between storms may not mean the flooding threat has ended.
Damaging Winds Could Arrive This Afternoon
The most serious storm threat is expected from the afternoon into Tuesday evening. The NWS Wilmington forecast discussion warns that an organized line of storms could produce wind gusts of 75 mph or more, along with embedded tornadoes and large hail.
Storms become especially likely Tuesday night, with a 90% chance of precipitation and a low near 70 degrees. Overnight rainfall could reach 1 to 2 inches, and additional thunderstorms may keep the flood threat active into Wednesday.
Storms Hang On Through Friday
Wednesday will remain hot, with a high near 89 and heat index values as high as 101. Thunderstorms are likely early, followed by additional chances through the day, while Wednesday night brings another 70% chance of showers and storms.
Thursday should reach about 87 degrees with more likely showers and thunderstorms, and Friday stays unsettled with a high near 85 and a 70% storm chance before afternoon rain chances ease. Saturday currently looks like the best outdoor window, with mostly sunny skies and a high near 86, before heat returns Sunday with a high near 91.
