Severe thunderstorm warning issued for parts of Franklin and Delaware counties

The National Weather Service in Wilmington has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for east central Franklin County, southeastern Delaware County and Licking County until 4:30 p.m.

At 4:07 p.m., a severe thunderstorm was located near Johnstown in Licking County, moving east at 45 mph.

The storm could produce 60 mph wind gusts, and the NWS warns to "expect damage to trees and power lines."

Among the communities that will be impacted: Newark, Reynoldsburg, Heath, Granville, Pataskala, Johnstown, Hebron, Utica, Hanover, Granville South, Marne, Beechwood Trails, Summit Station, New Albany, Jersey, Alexandria, Hartford, St. Louisville, Gratiot, and US Route 62 at State Route 661.

In addition, motorists traveling I-70 in Ohio between mile markers 137 and 144 should be aware of gusting winds.

A strong, isolated thunderstorm was also moving through east central Fairfield County as of 4:15 p.m.

Wind gusts of up to 50 mph and very heavy rain were expected. The gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects, the NWS warns. Visibility will be poor and hydroplaning is possible.

Communities affected by that storm include Lancaster, Bremen, Pleasantville, Rushville, West Rushville, North Berne, and Dumontville.

jwilhelm@dispatch.com

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Severe thunderstorm warning issued for parts of Franklin and Delaware counties