By Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has warned Ohioans of severe weather in the state, pleading with residents to pay attention to the news by keeping their television and radio stations on.
He disclosed that one fatality has been recorded in the state.
In recent days, several rounds of storms have moved through the state, bringing several inches of rain and damaging winds. According to the National Weather Service, storms moving through Ohio this afternoon and evening could cause flash flooding, tornadoes, and dangerous straight-line winds.
“I encourage everyone to pay close attention to local media reports and take these weather warnings seriously,” said Governor DeWine.
“Even after the storms exit the state, flooding will remain a serious concern.”
Perry and Muskingum counties are already experiencing severe flooding, particularly in Crooksville and Roseville where swift water rescue teams are working to evacuate residents.
On Tuesday afternoon, Governor DeWine signed a proclamation declaring a state of emergency in these counties. The proclamation includes the activation of the Ohio National Guard to assist the communities in Perry and Muskingum counties as needed.
“When severe weather impacts Ohio, we work closely with and support county emergency management agencies and assist with any requests they have”, said Ohio Emergency Management Agency Executive Director Sima Merick. “When roadways are covered with water, we encourage people to be safe and exercise patience, turn around, and find an alternate route.”
The Ohio Emergency Management Agency (EMA) offers the following safety tips:
Learn and practice evacuation routes, shelter plans, and flash flood response. Gather supplies, including non-perishable foods, cleaning supplies, and water for several days, in case you must leave immediately or if services are cut off in your area.
Know where you can seek safe shelter in the event of a flood. Pay attention to changing conditions and listen for updates. If you are under a flood warning, seek shelter immediately.
Have a family communication plan. Make sure everyone knows what the plan is and has each other’s phone numbers to remain in contact with each other.
Check on your neighbors and family members. Check on older neighbors to make sure that they have enough food, medicine, and water to get through the next week. Ask if they may need assistance evacuating, if necessary.
Understand generator safety. Generators can be helpful when the power goes out. It is important to know how to use them safely to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and other hazards. Generators and fuel should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and attached garages. Install working carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home.
Pets and livestock preparedness is important. Animals need protection from severe weather and flooding. Be sure pets and livestock have safe shelter on higher ground and access to clean drinking water.
The Ohio EMA is keeping in constant contact with the National Weather Service and state partners. The Ohio EMA Emergency Operations Center is under partial activation.
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