OHIO — In a press conference Friday, Gov. Mike DeWine and other state officials discussed preparations amid the potential for continued rainfall, severe thunderstorms and flooding.
They’ve been monitoring the slow-moving storm that’s been hovering over the Midwest for days, dumping water, DeWine said. They expect the system to finally make its way out of Ohio on Sunday.
As the ground had become saturated, DeWine said they have concerns about flooding. He said there’s already been localized flooding and swollen rivers and tributaries.
Statewide, about 70 roads are closed.
“As this weather system continues to linger, we know the flooding will only get worse,” DeWine said. “I do want to be clear, though. We do not expect this storm to bring record levels of flood waters. We do not expect that, but we are expecting moderate flooding, particularly in the southern half of the state.”
They are expecting more flooding on roads, in low-lying areas and in basements. He said the Ohio Emergency Management Agency emergency operations center are coordinating with local law enforcement and EMAs to ensure their needs are met.
Various state agencies are assisting in the response to this weather event.
DeWine said the Ohio State Highway Patrol will continue to monitor and respond to the impacts of the storm, ensuring motorist safety.
The Ohio Department of Transporation has been cleaning out culverts and drainage pipes to help keep roads free from water. Teams from ODOT are also standing by with chainsaws and equipment to remove trees/limbs from roads.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Parks and Watercraft also has water-rescue equipment prepared if needed.
Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel offered some safety tips to Ohio residents this weekend:
- Flash floods happen quickly, so seek higher ground immediately
- Do not drive or walk through flood waters
- Do not go around barriers that have been placed
- Be weather-aware and listen closely to public officials
- Ensure you have a safe shelter plan
Sima Merick, the executive director of the Ohio EMA, reminded Ohioans to keep their notifications turned on and know how to reach their family members.
She also stressed the importance of pre-planning a location to meet with loved ones if you are separated or cannot reach home.
If you are in a high-risk area, she also suggested keep a “go-bag” with essential items and to keep your pets in mind when making emergency plans.
“I think the main concern at this point is water,” DeWine said. “It’s a cumulative problem. We’re building on what’s already occurred…you’re just adding to that water, and it’s got no place to go. And that’s just what we’re seeing and that’s what we’re concerned about.”
