Central Ohio residents are being urged to stay alert as poor air quality and the threat of severe weather impact the region this week.
Franklin, Delaware, Licking, and Fairfield counties remain under an Air Quality Alert due to lingering wildfire smoke from Canada. This marks a continued trend of depleted air quality, with smoke continuing to be funneled into the area by shifting winds.
As the evening progresses, scattered showers are possible, but most regions will see a temporary break from the rain. However, Monday is shaping up to be an active weather day. Strong thunderstorms and showers are expected to begin in the morning and persist through the afternoon and evening. Forecasters warn that all severe weather threats are possible, including strong winds, hail, and tornadoes. Monday’s high will be a cooler-than-normal 75 degrees.
Here’s a look at the extended forecast:
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, mild, high near 76
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny and seasonable, high of 83
- Thursday: Sunny and warm, reaching 86
- Friday: Warm with a chance of showers, high of 86
- Saturday: Showers and storms expected, high of 83
- Sunday: Scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms, high near 82
A high-pressure system will settle in on Tuesday, offering a stretch of drier and warmer weather midweek before rain chances return heading into the weekend.
Residents are encouraged to limit outdoor activity, especially in the affected counties, and monitor updates from local weather authorities.
