UPDATE— NKU will be closed due to severe weather beginning at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday.

A level four out of five severe weather risk has been issued for Tuesday for parts of Ohio, Northern Kentucky and Southeastern Indiana by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Storm Prediction Center.

This threat includes the possibility of a few strong, long-track tornadoes.

The most intense storms are expected this afternoon from around 3-10 p.m., said meteorologist Evan Bentley of the Storm Prediction Center. The potential for damaging winds at gusts up to 75 m.p.h., large hail and several tornadoes is possible starting in the late afternoon into the evening.

A tornado watch is currently valid until noon, covering areas of Northern Kentucky, including Carroll, Grant and Pendleton counties. Tuesday morning until 11 a.m. a few severe storms are possible, with the threat of damaging wind and hail. Flash flooding may occur with the likelihood of heavy rain. While tornadoes are less likely in the morning, they can not be ruled out.

Tips to avoid damage:

• Park your vehicle in a covered area or garage if possible
• Avoid parking or standing next to trees, as damaging winds may cause them to fall
• Create a plan for storm safety, including a small shelter without windows in the case of a tornado

The Northerner will continue providing updates to this weather report as they become available.