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Central Ohio Braces for Overnight Winter Storm, Multiple Counties Under Snow Emergency
A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect across central Ohio as a significant winter storm is forecast to impact the region late Monday night and throughout Tuesday morning. Several counties have already declared snow emergencies in preparation for hazardous travel conditions.
The impending weather system is expected to deliver the bulk of its snowfall overnight, perhaps disrupting the Tuesday morning commute. Franklin County is anticipated to receive approximately 2-4 inches of snow. Though, areas southeast of the region could see considerably higher accumulations, with some locations potentially receiving up to eight inches.
Specifically, Hocking, Vinton, and Athens counties, along with several others south of Lancaster, are currently under Ohio Snow Emergencies.
The Ohio Commitee for Severe Weather Awareness outlines three levels of snow emergencies, each with specific recommendations for motorists:
- LEVEL 1: Roadways are hazardous due to blowing and drifting snow, and may also be icy. Drivers are urged to exercise extreme caution. Currently,Logan County,Marion County,and Morrow County are designated as Level 1.
- LEVEL 2: Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow and very icy conditions. Travel should be limited to essential personnel, and individuals are advised to contact their employers regarding work arrangements. As of this report, no counties are at Level 2.
- LEVEL 3: All roadways are closed to non-emergency personnel. travel is prohibited unless absolutely necessary due to an emergency. Employees should confirm work reporting status with their employers, and those on the roads may face legal repercussions. Currently, no counties are at Level 3.
Officials emphasize the importance of staying informed and prepared.Residents can track the storm’s progress using the Live VIPIR radar and monitor current traffic conditions in central Ohio.
Stay with Storm Team 4 for updated forecasts on NBC4i.com and the Storm Team 4 weather app as this winter storm develops. The latest traffic conditions, school closings, and the LIVE VIPIR radar are also available on NBC4i.com and the NBC4 news app.
Why is this storm happening? A strong arctic air mass colliding with moisture from the Great Lakes is fueling the winter storm. The clash of these systems is creating widespread snowfall across the region.
Who is affected? Central Ohio residents, particularly those in Franklin, Hocking, Vinton, and Athens counties, are most directly impacted. Commuters should anticipate hazardous travel conditions. Logan, marion, and Morrow counties are under Level 1 advisories, urging caution.
What is the extent of the impact? Snowfall totals are expected to range from 2-4 inches in Franklin County to up to 8 inches in areas southeast of the region. Multiple counties are under snow emergencies, restricting travel. The storm is expected to disrupt the Tuesday morning commute.
How did it end? As of the latest update,the storm is still developing. Though, forecasters predict the heaviest snowfall will taper off by Tuesday afternoon. Road crews are actively working to clear roadways, and conditions are expected to improve gradually throughout the day. Residents are advised to continue monitoring forecasts and road conditions
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