CINCINNATI — Several schools in the Cincinnati area have closed, switched to remote learning, or are dismissing early on Friday due to severe weather conditions caused by the remnants of Hurricane Helene.
Helene, which made landfall late Thursday night, has brought strong winds and heavy rain to the Tri-State region. The National Weather Service issued a HIGH WIND WARNING for the area from noon to 10 p.m. Friday, with sustained winds between 20 to 30 mph and gusts reaching 40 to 60 mph. These conditions could result in travel disruptions and power outages, prompting school closures and schedule adjustments across the region.
Heavy rain has already begun in Cincinnati, and officials expect peak wind gusts between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. The storm is forecasted to bring 1-2 inches of rain by sunset, with an additional 2 to 3 inches over the weekend.
On Friday afternoon, a tree fell on a school bus from the Lakota School District in West Chester. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but students remained on the bus until Duke Energy crews could safely address nearby downed power lines. In other areas, trees fell onto homes and cars, but no injuries have been reported.
As the storm progresses, officials urge residents to secure outdoor items and be prepared for potential power outages. Rain will continue overnight, tapering off briefly, with steady showers expected on Saturday and off-and-on rain through Sunday.
Residents should remain cautious of falling trees and debris, as Helene continues to impact the Cincinnati area with strong winds and rain through the weekend.
