DAYTON, Ohio — Severe weather is on the way, producing damaging straight-line winds, hail and even tornadoes, and local officials are getting prepared.

What You Need To Know

  • Severe weather is on the way, and Montgomery County officials are getting prepared

  • They have been monitoring the weather and are communicating with emergency response groups

  • Make sure you have an emergency plan, a weather radio, a supply kit and backup power

Todd Barstow, the deputy director of the Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management, said in an email to Spectrum News 1 that they are monitoring weather using sources ranging from local news media to the National Weather Service, Dayton SkyWarn and radar/satellite imagery.

They are in communication with emergency management agencies in southwest and west central Ohio and the regional staff at the Ohio Emergency Management Agency.

“We are also sharing severe weather forecasts and briefing information from the National Weather Service (NWS) with Montgomery County fire and police departments, as well as other emergency response organizations,” Barstow said in the email.

They provided the following advice for residents during storms/severe weather:

  • Prepare an emergency plan for home and work and keep your pets in mind
  • Keep a weather radio both at home and work
  • Ensure your family’s emergency contact list is up to date
  • Activate wireless emergency alerts on your phone
  • Keep a supply kit
  • Ensure you have backup power for your communication device
  • Follow the NWS on social media

You can also visit its website for more resources.

According to the Ohio EMA, there is the potential for heavy rain, strong wind, hail and even tornadoes.

“These hazards have consequences including flooding, property damage, power outages, injury, and even death,” Sandy Mackey with the Ohio EMA said in an email. “Being aware of the hazards that may impact your location is important and can help you prepare and stay safe.”

It advises Ohioans to never drive through flooded roads and to always look for an alternative route. The organization said it’s important to know where you’re going to seek shelter prior to the severe storms hitting.

It also suggests having multiple ways to receive emergency notifications, whether it’s via radio, text or county-wide mass notification systems.

Spectrum News 1 meteorologist Ashley Batey contributed to this report.

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