(COLUMBUS, Ohio) – Ohioans are being urged to prepare for a significant winter storm expected to impact the state starting Sunday, with heavy snow, ice, and dangerous travel conditions forecasted across central and southern Ohio. An upgrade to a Winter Storm Warning has been issued for counties south of the I-70 corridor, while counties near and north of I-70 remain under a Winter Storm Watch due to uncertain weather impacts.
The storm, which is expected to bring a wintry mix to southern Ohio and northern Kentucky, will include sleet in some areas, slightly reducing snow totals. However, areas just north of the wintry mix are likely to experience heavier snow, with locally higher totals possible, particularly in southern Ohio and southeastern Indiana. Freezing rain is also expected in portions of northern Kentucky, potentially causing dangerous ice accumulations.
Ohio EMA Preparedness
The Ohio Emergency Management Agency (EMA) continues to monitor the storm and is in contact with the National Weather Service and state partners. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine emphasized the importance of being weather-aware and prepared for the forecasted snow and ice.
“Ohio is facing a winter storm that is predicted to hit on Sunday, and I encourage Ohioans to be ready for the forecasted snow and ice,” Governor DeWine said. “Please be weather aware and prepared.”
The storm’s effects will be felt across the state, with dangerous travel conditions expected due to the heavy snowfall and mixed precipitation. Additionally, there is the potential for damage to trees, powerlines, and structures. The EMA is ready to provide support to local agencies if needed.
Safety Tips for Ohioans
To stay safe during the winter storm, Ohioans are urged to:
Check on vulnerable individuals: Make sure neighbors, elderly family members, and those with medical conditions have enough food, water, and heating to sustain themselves. Encourage them to stay indoors.
Be mindful of carbon monoxide dangers: With the increased use of alternate heating sources, carbon monoxide poisoning is a significant risk. Ensure homes have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and always use generators outdoors, at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and attached garages.
Prepare for winter travel: If you must travel, ensure your vehicle is equipped with a winter emergency kit, including items like flashlights, extra batteries, high-energy snacks, bottled water, blankets, and jumper cables. Monitor road conditions at www.ohgo.com and call #677 for roadside assistance.
Dress appropriately for the cold: Bundle up in layers, limit your time outside, and avoid exposing skin to the cold. Frostbite can develop in less than 10 minutes on exposed skin. In case of frostbite or hypothermia symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
Animal Safety
Bring pets indoors: Animals need protection from the extreme cold. Do not allow pets to stay outside overnight during freezing temperatures, and ensure livestock have warm shelters and unfrozen water.
Continued Coordination
“Coordination with our state and local partners is vital when a winter storm is predicted to impact Ohio,” said Ohio EMA Executive Director Sima Merick. “Ohio EMA will maintain contact with our partners before, during, and after the storm.”
For more information on winter weather safety and how to prepare for a winter storm, visit the Ohio EMA, Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness, and Ready.gov websites.
