Storm timeline moved back to Monday

The National Weather Service had a briefing with area Emergency Management Agency directors at 11 a.m. Friday with updates on the weekend storm system.

“Computer forecast models are having a difficult time projecting the exact timing of the storm as this weather system is still in the developing stages off the coast of California,” said Van Wert County EMA Director Rick McCoy. “When it comes on shore, then we will have a better handle on the storms progression across the United States.”

That means, McCoy added, that two scenarios are possible at the moment. At this point, it appears that today will be dry with temperatures in the 70s, while Sunday will also remain dry with temperatures around 82 degrees and dew points around 70, which will fuel the weather system. A major tornado outbreak should begin affecting Iowa on Sunday afternoon and move into Illinois Sunday evening.

“Depending on the timing of the storm and forward speed, this is when things get complicated,” McCoy said, and provided two possible scenarios:

Scenario 1 — The storm system moves a bit quicker and a strong squall line with destructive winds moves across Indiana overnight Sunday night and into northwest Ohio sometime around 7 a.m. Monday.  Damage could be widespread from the winds.

Scenario 2 — The storm system will move a bit slower, which could still produce storms Monday morning, but the energy associated with the cold front would not come into northwest Ohio until after 1 p.m. Monday, producing a squall line with destructive winds and strong tornadoes.

Either way, the National Weather Service is emphasizing that a major event may occur and that everyone should be prepared for this storm system. Keep abreast of the changing forecasts and timing of this weather system over the weekend, as Weather Service and media should be able to better pinpoint what and when things will occur.