With the potential for a significant winter storm expected to impact Ohio this weekend, the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) and the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) are urging motorists to prepare for rapidly deteriorating road conditions and to consider postponing travel if possible.
Forecast models indicate the system could bring widespread snowfall, blowing snow, and dangerously cold temperatures, creating hazardous travel conditions across much of the state. The combination of accumulating snow and falling temperatures could lead to slick, snow-covered roads and reduced visibility, particularly during the height of the storm.
Governor Mike DeWine said state agencies are closely monitoring the storm and are ready to respond once snow begins to fall.
“We are watching the storm closely, and I’ve directed our state agencies to be ready to clear the roads and help motorists as soon as the snow hits. The best way you can help law enforcement and road crews is to prioritize your own safety by taking your time on the roads, being patient, and giving snowplows plenty of room to work if you must travel.”
ODOT crews across the state are preparing equipment, loading trucks with de-icing materials, and pre-treating roadways where conditions allow. Crews will be on duty ahead of, during, and after the storm, working around the clock to keep roads as safe and passable as possible. Travel this weekend is highly discouraged.
In Southwest Ohio alone, ODOT has more than 250 crews ready to respond once snowfall begins. ODOT maintains interstates, U.S. routes, and state routes, and officials stress that road conditions may remain difficult during the height of the storm.
Motorists are reminded that very low temperatures will make snow removal more challenging. Salt becomes less effective once temperatures drop below 20 degrees. While ODOT will use additives to help salt work at lower temperatures, drivers should expect roads to take longer to clear after snowfall ends
“Our snowplow drivers will be working long hours to keep the roads safe and passable. Please do your part by driving for the conditions, putting your phone down, and giving crews room to work.”
— ODOT Director Pamela Boratyn
Already this winter, ODOT snowplows have been struck 30 times statewide, often due to drivers following too closely, rear-ending plows, or losing control while attempting to pass them.
OSHP officials echoed the call for caution, noting that many winter crashes are preventable.
“Safe driving habits are your best defense against unpredictable winter weather. We are asking drivers to protect themselves and others by slowing down, using extreme caution, and keeping extra space between you and the vehicle ahead.”
— Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent, Ohio State Highway Patrol
According to OSHP statistics, unsafe speed was listed as a factor in 22 percent of crashes on snow-, ice-, or slush-covered roads. Other common causes include driving off the roadway and following too closely.
Drivers are encouraged to ensure their vehicles are winter-ready before traveling. This includes checking tire tread, batteries, and windshield washer fluid levels. Motorists should also carry a winter emergency kit with items such as an ice scraper, shovel, jumper cables, flashlight, warning devices, blankets, food, water, a phone charger, and a first aid kit.
If you must travel, reduce speed, increase following distance, and give snowplows plenty of room to operate. Real-time road conditions are available at OHGO before leaving home.
In the event of a breakdown or crash, drivers should activate hazard lights, move the vehicle as far off the roadway as possible, remain inside the vehicle, and call #677 or 911 for assistance. If a vehicle becomes stuck in snow, drivers should clear the tailpipe of debris to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
