Extreme Winter Weather Update: State, Local Officials Urge Ohioans to Prepare and Stay Off Roads if Possible, Warming Centers Available in Ashland County
ASHLAND COUNTY, OH — Ohio Governor Mike DeWine joined state and local officials this week to urge Ohioans to prepare for a potentially dangerous winter storm expected to impact much of the state, bringing heavy snowfall, extreme cold, and hazardous travel conditions.
State officials report that last winter Ohio experienced 15,647 crashes on snow-, ice-, and slush-covered roads, nearly double the previous winter and the highest total in five years. Seventeen of those crashes were fatal, with eight occurring in January alone.
According to the National Weather Service, some parts of Ohio could see up to 12 inches of snow, with sub-zero wind chills possible overnight. A Winter Storm Watch is in effect from Saturday evening through Monday afternoon, with the heaviest snow expected on Sunday. Officials warn that travel could be especially difficult, potentially impacting the Monday morning commute.
“My main advice to everyone is to stay home if you can,” Governor DeWine said. “By staying home, you and your family will be in the safest place to ride out the storm; you give ODOT and local road crews time to plow the roads; and you can help ensure that law enforcement resources aren’t taxed.”
Warming Centers and Power Outage Plans UPDATED:
Trinity Lutheran Church
508 Center St., Ashland
Open 7:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m., Closed Sunday
Savannah Fire Department
6 Haney St., Savannah
Open 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Ashland Kroc Center
527 E. Liberty St., Ashland
Open 8 a.m. – 6 p.m., Monday–Friday
Ashland County EMA Director Anne Strouth provided an updated overview of local warming center operations and contingency plans.
Strouth said Hayesville Fire Department will open as a warming center if needed, and noted that most social service agencies across the county are serving as warming centers during normal business hours. The Ashland Kroc Center remains open as a warming center Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
However, Strouth confirmed that Trinity Lutheran Church on Center Street has announced it will be closed on Sunday.
In the event of widespread power outages, Strouth said the county is prepared to expand operations. “If we lose power, I will activate the Sheriff’s Office old EMA Room, and all fire departments can serve as warming centers,” she said. These measures are intended to ensure residents have access to safe, heated locations during prolonged outages and extreme cold.
Snow Emergency Levels
Ashland County Sheriff Kurt J. Schneider reminds residents that snow emergencies are declared based on local road conditions:
Level 1 – Roadway Advisory: Roads are hazardous; drive cautiously
Level 2 – Roadway Warning: Only necessary travel is advised
Level 3 – Roadway Emergency: All non-emergency travel is prohibited; violations may result in arrest
The Sheriff’s Office, along with the Ashland Police Division and Ohio State Highway Patrol, confirmed that deputies, officers, and troopers are prepared to work extended shifts as needed throughout the storm.
Officials urge residents to monitor forecasts closely, delay travel whenever possible, and take winter weather warnings seriously as Ohio braces for what could be one of the most significant winter storms of the season.
Road Safety and Travel Guidance
If travel is unavoidable, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) and the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) advise drivers to:
Plan routes in advance and allow extra travel time
Slow down and increase following distance
Check tire pressure, batteries, and windshield fluid
Carry a winter emergency kit with essentials
If involved in a crash or breakdown, activate hazard lights, move off the roadway if safe, remain inside the vehicle, and call #677 or 911
Clear snow from the tailpipe if stuck to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning
Give snowplows plenty of space
Winter Preparedness Tips from Ohio EMA
Before the storm:
Monitor forecasts and sign up for emergency alerts
Stock three days of non-perishable food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, and warm clothing
Insulate pipes, check heating systems, seal windows and doors
Charge phones and backup power sources
Make a family communication plan and ensure pets and livestock are protected
During the storm:
Close off unused rooms and use blankets and layers for warmth
Never use ovens or grills for heat
Follow all generator safety instructions
Do not leave space heaters unattended
Use text messaging to conserve phone battery
After the storm:
Inspect homes for damage, leaks, or ice buildup
Clear snow and debris from storm drains
Avoid downed power lines and slippery surfaces
Check on elderly or vulnerable neighbors
Guidance for Older Adults
The Ohio Department of Aging reminds residents to:
Have backup caregiving plans in place
Wear footwear with good traction to prevent falls
Dress in layers and limit time outdoors during extreme cold
