As a winter storm is expected to impact Ohio Friday through the weekend with significant snowfall in northeast Ohio, the Ohio Emergency Management Agency (EMA) is monitoring and keeping in constant contact with the National Weather Service and state partners.
“As we anticipate this blast of winter weather, I encourage Ohioans to be prepared before the storm gets here,” said Governor DeWine. “I also encourage Ohioans to give our snowplows time to clear the roads and follow any instructions given by public officials regarding travel.”
Winter Storm Warnings and Winter Weather Advisories are in effect across the state. Much of the state will see snow, and the heaviest snowfall is expected in northeast Ohio with around 12 inches possible in certain areas. The snow will affect travel Friday through the weekend.
Cold temperatures and gusty winds will continue over the weekend, with the wind chill pushing to 0 degrees and sub-zero temperatures through Sunday. Stay tuned to your local media for weather updates as forecasts can change rapidly.
“Ohio EMA coordinates with our partners at the federal, state, and local level when winter storms are predicted to impact Ohio,” said Ohio EMA Executive Director Sima Merick. “These partnerships are what allow us to work together to keep Ohioans and visitors safe.”
Being prepared for winter weather can be as easy a 1-2-3.
- Know where to get emergency communications.
- Check the weather forecast before engaging in outdoor activities.
- If going outside, bundle up and dress in layers. Limit your time outside. Try to have as little skin exposed as possible. Know that frostbite can occur on exposed skin in less than 10 minutes.
- Symptoms include a loss of feeling and a white or pale appearance in fingers, toes, ear tips, and the tip of the nose. If you see signs of frostbite, seek medical care immediately.
- Avoid overexertion when engaging in outdoor tasks, such as shoveling snow. Take breaks when you feel tired or strained.
- If you have pets, bring them indoors. If you cannot bring them inside, provide adequate shelter to keep them warm and make sure they have access to water.
- Check on your neighbors that may need assistance.
- Give livestock have warm shelter and access to unfrozen drinking water.
- Know the signs of hypothermia. They include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, and sometimes drowsiness in older adults and children. In infants, symptoms can include bright red or cold skin and very low energy
- Prepare your home.
- Some preventative actions to take include protecting water pipes.
- Be cautious of carbon monoxide danger. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include: headaches, fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea/vomiting, confusion and drowsiness or unconsciousness. If you or anyone in your home are experiencing any of these symptoms, or your carbon monoxide detector’s alarm sounds, leave the home immediately and call 911.
- Understand generator safety. Generators can be helpful when the power goes out. It is important to know how use them safely to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and other hazards. Generators and fuel should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and attached garages. Install working carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home.
- If you’re traveling, make sure you have a winter emergency kit in your vehicle. Items to include: flashlight, extra batteries, tools, high-energy snacks, bottled water, car charger for cell phone, extra jackets, gloves, hats, blankets, tools, and battery jumper cables.
- Remember these key phrases: Ice and Snow, Take it Slow & Don’t Crowd the Plow!
- Give snow plow crews plenty of room to work. They travel slower than most other vehicles on the roadway as they clear snow and treat roadways.
- Allow extra travel time to reach your destination. This helps avoid driving too fast for the conditions.
- Before you head out during winter weather, always check the weather forecast and learn about road conditions and road closures by visiting the OHGO
