Live updates: Strong storms expected for Columbus and central Ohio on April 2, 2024

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Severe weather is expected to continue Tuesday in central Ohio, with strong storms and potential tornadoes in the forecast for evening. Stay with NBC4 all day for updates, including the latest forecast from Storm Team 4, live traffic conditions and the latest on closings and delays. And download the NBC4 news [...]

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Severe weather is expected to continue Tuesday in central Ohio, with strong storms and potential tornadoes in the forecast for evening.

Stay with NBC4 all day for updates, including the latest forecast from Storm Team 4, live traffic conditions and the latest on closings and delays. And download the NBC4 news and weather apps to be able to receive push alert notifications.

2 p.m. forecast update

Storm Team 4 meteorologist Joe Speir posted the latest severe weather tracking information on X. "Severe weather risks still remain high today, but have shifted slightly south," he wrote. "Still a moderate risk of tornadoes, with higher chances for longer, stronger ones. Damaging winds and large hail threats remain as well."

Olentangy dismissing early

Olentangy Local Schools, the second largest district in central Ohio after Columbus, announced early dismissal. Students will be dismissed 90 minutes early, afternoon preschool classes are canceled, and afterschool activities were all canceled.

In addition, the Columbus Zoo will close at 2 p.m. and the Franklin County courthouse at 2:30 p.m., and Columbus State has canceled evening classes. For updates on closings and delays around central Ohio, visit the NBC4 closings page.

Franklinton floodwall closed

Floodgates are being installed along Greenlawn and Harmon avenues in Franklinton, west of Downtown. In a traffic alert, city officials advised motorists to avoid the area. Greenlawn Avenue is closed between Front Street and Harmon, and the Interstate 71 ramps to Greenlawn will be closed.

Harmon Avenue will be closed between Hart and Frank roads.

Updated traffic conditions are available at this link.

Turn around, don't drown

FEMA issued a notice for its region that includes central Ohio. “Monitor local forecasts and prepare for the possibility of dangerous weather,” regional administrator Tom Sivak said. “Identify your safe shelter locations and remain vigilant--especially for potential power outages and dangerous road conditions caused by possible downed power lines and flooding.”

It included these tips:

• Follow the direction of local and state officials and make sure to sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts. If your community has sirens, become familiar with the warning tone.
• Identify nearby, sturdy buildings close to where you live, work, study and play. Pay attention to weather reports and warnings and be ready to take shelter immediately, if necessary.
• Make sure all mobile devices are fully charged in advance of the storm. Plan for batteries and other alternative power sources to meet your needs in case the power goes out, such as a portable charger or power bank. Have flashlights for every household member. 
• Have a communications plan in place. Ensure everyone in your household knows where to go, what to do and how to reconnect after a disaster.
• Watch for fallen power lines and trees. Report them immediately.
• Do not walk, swim or drive through floodwaters.
• After the storm and once you are safe, check on neighbors and friends to make sure they’re okay.