Scioto Ema

Scioto Ema Scioto County Emergency Management Agency page to provide alerts and notifications on emergency situations, including severe weather.

Scioto County EMA operates the County Emergency Operations Center for response and recovery from emergency crisis. This page is for assisting with emergency public information to help citizens be proactive during emergency events.

Have you ever been confused about the difference in a Weather Watch and a Weather Warning? Here's a simple way to rememb...
06/12/2026

Have you ever been confused about the difference in a Weather Watch and a Weather Warning?

Here's a simple way to remember it:

Weather Watch = Be Prepared - Think: "I need to Watch the Weather."

A Watch means that weather conditions are favorable for dangerous weather to develop. Ingredients needed for severe weather are present but not yet organized.

Examples:
• Tornado Watch – Conditions are favorable for tornadoes to form.
• Severe Thunderstorm Watch – Conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms to develop.

When a watch is issued:
• Monitor weather updates
• Know where you will take shelter if needed
• Be ready to act quickly

Weather Warning = Take Action - Think: "Warning me to take action now."

A Warning means dangerous weather is occurring, has been detected, or is imminent.

Examples:
• Tornado Warning – A tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar.
• Severe Thunderstorm Warning – A severe thunderstorm is occurring and moving into the warned area.

When a warning is issued:
• Seek shelter immediately
• Follow instructions from local officials

Preparedness Tip: If a watch is issued, use that time to gather your family and your 3-day emergency go-bag, charge your devices, and review your emergency plans so you're ready if a warning follows.

First responders, law enforcement and support agencies did an excellent job responding to the tragic plane crash in Minf...
06/11/2026

First responders, law enforcement and support agencies did an excellent job responding to the tragic plane crash in Minford this morning.

Planning a summer getaway? Whether you're heading to the beach, the mountains, or visiting family, safe travel starts wi...
06/11/2026

Planning a summer getaway? Whether you're heading to the beach, the mountains, or visiting family, safe travel starts with preparation. Have a great road trip and arrive safely!

Before You Leave
• Check tire pressure and tread, brakes, lights, windshield wipers, and fluid levels.
• Make sure your spare tire and jack are in good condition.
• Keep your gas tank at least half full during travel.

Pack an Emergency Kit
• Water and non-perishable snacks
• First aid kit
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Phone charger
• Jumper cables
• Basic tools
• Extra clothing and blanket

Drive Smart
• Wear your seat belt at all times.
• Obey speed limits and traffic laws.
• Avoid distractions such as texting or using your phone while driving.
• Share driving duties on long trips if possible.
• Get plenty of rest before departing.
• Take breaks every 2 hours or 100 miles.
• Stop immediately if you feel drowsy.
• Share your route and expected arrival time with family or friends.
• Let someone know if your plans change significantly.

Stay Weather Aware
• Check the forecast along your route.
• Slow down during rain, fog, or construction zones.
• Do not use cruise control when raining.
• Never drive through flooded roadways—Turn Around, Don't Drown.

According to the NWS in Wilmington, OH…temperatures will be rising into the upper 80s to around 90, and will result in t...
06/11/2026

According to the NWS in Wilmington, OH…temperatures will be rising into the upper 80s to around 90, and will result in the heat index approaching 100 degrees this afternoon. Be sure to take precautions, especially if you will be spending time outdoors.

A cold front will approach the area late tonight and cross the region early Friday. While storms should be weakening as they approach the area tonight, there is some possibility that a few could still have strong to damaging winds.

The Southern Ohio Forest Rally returns to West Portsmouth and the Shawnee State Forest this Friday. Portions of some for...
06/10/2026

The Southern Ohio Forest Rally returns to West Portsmouth and the Shawnee State Forest this Friday. Portions of some forest roads will be closed to traffic temporarily throughout the day.

The event is free to the public to attend but has specific viewing areas designated. You can view the full event details, schedule, spectator guide and download the app at www.southernohioforestrally.com/

You can watch teams work on their cars, enjoy food trucks and purchase merchandise at Portsmouth West High School on Friday, June 12, 2026. Event hours on Friday are 10 AM to 5 PM.

Motorists are urged to use caution when traveling in the area due to increased congestion.

Extreme heat is one of the deadliest weather hazards in the United States. Preparing ahead of time can help protect you ...
06/10/2026

Extreme heat is one of the deadliest weather hazards in the United States. Preparing ahead of time can help protect you when temperatures soar.

Stay Hydrated
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty.
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks, which can contribute to dehydration.
• Increase water intake when working or exercising outdoors.

Keep Your Home Cool
• Use air conditioning whenever possible.
• Close blinds, curtains, and shades during the hottest part of the day.
• Use fans but remember that fans alone may not prevent heat-related illness.
• Identify cooling centers or public buildings where you can cool off if needed.

Dress for the Heat
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing.
• Use sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors.
• Limit activities during the hottest hours of the day, typically 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Check on Others
• Check on the elderly, neighbors, family and those with medical conditions.
• Ensure individuals without air conditioning have access to a cool environment.
• Never leave children, older adults, or pets in a parked vehicle.
• Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Stay Informed
• Monitor local weather forecasts for heat advisories.
• Sign up for local emergency alerts.
• Have a plan for power outages that could affect cooling systems.
• Identify where you can cool down, such as, libraries and community centers.

According to the NWS in Wilmington, OH…the humid air mass will remain in place. This combined with temperatures rising i...
06/10/2026

According to the NWS in Wilmington, OH…the humid air mass will remain in place. This combined with temperatures rising into the upper 80s to around 90 both today and tomorrow will result in the heat index approaching 100. Being the first hot days of the year, it may take some time to get acclimated. So, the effects of the heat may be greater than later in the summer. Be sure to take precautions, especially if you will be spending time outdoors.

When emergencies happen, information can change rapidly. Relying on just one source may leave you without critical updat...
06/09/2026

When emergencies happen, information can change rapidly. Relying on just one source may leave you without critical updates if power, internet, or cell service is disrupted. Use multiple methods to stay informed before, during, and after an emergency.

Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA)
• Emergency messages sent directly to your mobile phone.
• No sign-up required.

Emergency Alert System (EAS)
• Interrupts television and radio broadcasts to deliver critical emergency information
• No sign-up required.

NOAA Weather Radio
• Provides 24/7 weather forecasts, watches, warnings, and emergency information.
• Works even when internet and cellular networks are unavailable.

CodeRED or Local Alert Systems
• Free sign up at www.SciotoEMA.com
• Receive emergency notifications specific to your community.

Local Television and Radio Stations
• May provide live coverage during severe weather and major emergencies.
• Often offer detailed information about local impacts and safety recommendations.

Official Social Media Accounts
• Follow Scioto County Emergency Management Agency, National Weather Service, law enforcement, fire departments, and local government agencies.

Weather Apps
• Push notifications for severe weather (tornadoes, floods, snowstorms) give you enough time to prepare and protect property.

Emergency Management and Government Websites
• Check for official updates, shelter information, road closures, and recovery resources.

Don't depend on a single alert method. Power outages, damaged infrastructure, and network congestion can affect how information is delivered. The more ways you have to receive emergency information, the better prepared you'll be when every minute counts.

According to the NWS in Wilmington, OH…locally heavy rainfall will be possible today, especially near and south of the O...
06/09/2026

According to the NWS in Wilmington, OH…locally heavy rainfall will be possible today, especially near and south of the Ohio River. More showers and storms with heavy rainfall may occur late tonight as well in parts of the Tri-State south and west of Cincinnati. Those who live near creeks and streams and any other flood prone areas should maintain a heightened awareness.

Water One, in Lucasville, has lifted the boil advisory for 266 to 855 Cook Road.
06/08/2026

Water One, in Lucasville, has lifted the boil advisory for 266 to 855 Cook Road.

Address

729 6th Street
Portsmouth, OH
45662

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 4:30pm
Tuesday 8am - 4:30pm
Wednesday 8am - 4:30pm
Thursday 8am - 4:30pm
Friday 8am - 4:30pm

Telephone

+17403558300

Website

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