Severe Storms Threaten Millions in the Ohio Valley and Northeast

• Severe storms threaten Ohio.
• Authorities issue warnings.
• Holy Week begins with severe weather.

Millions of people in the Ohio Valley and parts of the northeastern United States are bracing for extreme weather conditions at the start of the week.

A rapidly moving cold front sweeping across the region is expected to trigger severe thunderstorms from Monday through early Tuesday.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Storm Prediction Center (SPC) has warned that more than 28 million people will be at risk of hazardous weather events.

The most affected areas include the states of Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.

Holy Week begins with severe weather

The SPC has classified over 9 million people—from Kentucky to Pennsylvania—under Level 2 risk on its five-tier scale.

Cities such as Columbus and Cincinnati in Ohio, Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania, Charleston in West Virginia, and Lexington in Kentucky fall within the most vulnerable zone.

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The main threats from these storms include damaging winds, large hail, and even the possibility of isolated tornadoes.

Additionally, frequent cloud-to-ground lightning and torrential downpours over short periods are expected.

While the front’s fast pace may limit total rainfall accumulation, localized amounts of 1 to 2 inches are forecasted.

These rains come as several rivers in the region remain elevated following recent flooding events.

In Cincinnati, the Ohio River has risen above 60 feet—its highest level since at least 2018—prompting the temporary closure of nearby parks and roadways.

Authorities have also activated floodgates to protect low-lying areas from potential overflow.

In Princeton, Indiana, residents are still dealing with the aftermath of the EF-1 tornado that touched down last Thursday.

Dozens of homes were damaged in that event, and there is concern that incoming rain will hinder ongoing recovery efforts.

FOX Weather meteorologist Steve Bender warned that the accumulated heat and atmospheric instability will fuel the formation of intense storms.

These conditions are expected to intensify especially during the afternoon and continue into the night, increasing overall risk.

Bender explained that cities like Pittsburgh and Charleston may experience severe storms overnight, which poses a greater threat due to limited visibility and slower response times.

The weather pattern will also bring a drop in temperatures across much of the Ohio Valley over the coming days.

Highs are forecasted to stay below seasonal averages for mid-April, which typically hover around 59°F (15°C).

This cooling trend could persist throughout the week, adding another layer of contrast to the expected severe weather.

Authorities urge residents to stay informed through official sources and to prepare emergency plans in case of evacuations or power outages.

People are also advised to avoid driving through flooded roads, as heavy rains may cause flash flooding in vulnerable areas.

Emergency management organizations remain on high alert and are coordinating resources for a rapid response to any major disasters.

This Holy Week weather event reflects a spring season that’s more active than usual in terms of severe weather across the United States.

Experts warn that the increased frequency and intensity of such events may be tied to shifting global climate patterns.

For now, millions will have to contend with a dangerous mix of storms, hail, and potential tornadoes just as Holy Week begins, according to Fox Weather.