Support Us Button Widget

A local guide to navigating severe storms in central Ohio

When Columbus, Ohio faces severe weather, use this guide to keep you connected to local organizations, resources, and agencies.

CBUStoday pedestrian walkway closure

Bike paths and pedestrian walkways may be closed due to fallen debris in the path. | Photo via @wbns10tv

Whether your basement is flooding, or you just want to know more about city clean up efforts, severe storms in Columbus can cause a lot of questions.

So, after another run of extreme weather, we are trying to provide answers to as many questions as we can. Consider this a handy resource for quickly finding resources, organizations, and agencies making an effort.

Power outages

If you live within the city limits, Columbus has multiple options for getting more information or help. The city’s website offers a map to show current power outages + a phone number can be found at the bottom to report outages or downed lines.

Alternatively, AEP can provide an outage map via searching zip codes.

Flooding

There are numerous steps to take if your basement begins to flood, and those are outlined via the city’s website. Most notably, the city advises extra caution in flooded basements where live electric wires can cause serious harm. If sewage begins to backup, an emergency hotline number is also listed online.

CBUStoday Scioto River flooding near Confluence Park

Water levels were dangerously high in the Scioto River near Confluence Park after multiple storms in April. | Photo via @wbns10tv

Hail storms

If you are unable to cover your car at home, we recommend finding a nearby parking garage in places like downtown or campus. If you are worried about parking prices, rest assured knowing one hail dent can cost upwards of $200 to fix.

Wifi outages

Depending on who your provider is, outage maps can be found online or through your account. Here are a few links to the most popular providers in CBUS:

Updates + alerts

Things move quickly during these kinds of natural events, and we rely on the good folks at 10TV for accurate alerts. Plus, check out the Doppler 10 severe weather safety guide for more tips.

More from CBUStoday
Learn the basics ahead of the Ohio State Fair and browse rides, fair food, and concerts coming to Columbus for the week.
Ohio is well represented on the world stage at the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics — these are some locals to watch.
A turn of phrase here, a recognizable Columbus nod there — these craft beers found around CBUS take local pride seriously.
Pack your reusable shopping bags, because we’ve rounded up 13 farmers markets around Columbus, OH.
From Monday, July 22 to Friday, July 26, 2024, we’re shining a spotlight on the vibrant drink scene in Columbus; check out our map of local drink deals.
Ready for your lunch break? Check out these 15 lunches from sandwiches to pizzas to fast and casual options around the city.
From hiking to water adventures to top dining spots, we have the details on how to maximize your trip to Hocking Hills this summer.
The northside of Columbus will have four new businesses in the future, including a now-open bakery as well as a used bookstore.
From dog-friendly spots to rooms with a view, Columbus is full of special places to stay that offer guests a break from traditional motels and hotels.
The largest fireworks display in the Midwest returns to downtown Columbus, complete with 100+ food and drink vendors and live performances,