(Columbus, Ohio, January 24, 2026) – State officials are urging Ohio residents and travelers too stay home this weekend as a notable winter storm moves into the region, bringing the threat of heavy snowfall and dangerously cold temperatures.
A major winter storm is forecast to impact Ohio this weekend, prompting officials to advise caution and, if possible, to remain indoors.
- ohio Governor Mike DeWine is advising residents to stay indoors if they can, calling the forecast a “serious danger.”
- The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) says conditions will likely remain hazardous for the Monday commute due to prolonged cold.
- Some northeast Ohio communities are already experiencing rock salt shortages.
- Officials are warning drivers to exercise extreme caution and give plow trucks ample space.
Storm to Bring Snow and Frigid Temperatures
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Governor Mike DeWine on Friday encouraged Ohioans to prepare for a possibly dangerous weekend, advising those who can to remain at home. “Everybody who can stay inside should do so,” DeWine said, adding that the forecast presents a “serious danger.” He suggested enjoying indoor activities like reading, watching movies, or spending time with family, and even “a glass of wine or a beer-if they are of-age.”
The National weather Service is forecasting several inches of snow across most of Ohio beginning Saturday afternoon and continuing through Sunday. According to ODOT spokesperson Matt bruning, the combination of snowfall and extremely low temperatures poses the biggest challenge. “this weekend, if you can stay home, do it,” Bruning said Thursday. “The goal during storms like this, or any storm, is passable, not perfect.”
Bruning explained that the colder temperatures will substantially slow down road recovery efforts. “Because of the lower temperatures, it’s going to take us longer to recover these roads … than it would if temperatures were in the mid-20s,” he said.
Salt Supply Concerns and Road Safety
Some local governments in northeast Ohio are already facing shortages of rock salt, according to a report from Ideastream. Bruning noted that salt becomes less effective when temperatures drop below 20 degrees Fahrenheit,but assured the public that ODOT currently has an adequate supply for “this storm and the very near future.”
ODOT is also urging drivers to be especially cautious around plow trucks. More than 30 plow trucks have been involved in collisions this winter, following 54 incidents last winter. “You will lose every battle with a plow, unless you’re in a semi-truck, so don’t test them. It’s just not worth it,” Bruning warned.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol is preparing for a busy weekend. Lieutenant Brice Nihiser said the patrol’s primary focus will be ensuring driver safety and responding to crashes. “Our main job is to make sure that drivers are safe when they go out, and then to handle those crashes, when they do come,” Nihiser said.”We certainly know ther’s going to be crashes this weekend.” He added that drivers involved in crashes could face citations if counties issue Level 3 snow emergencies, the most severe designation.
What this Means for You
If you live in Ohio or are planning to travel through the state this weekend, the safest course of action is to stay home. If travel is unavoidable, allow significantly extra time for your commute, drive slowly, and be prepared for hazardous road conditions. Keep a winter emergency kit in your vehicle, including blankets, warm clothing, a flashlight, and a phone charger. Be especially mindful of the increased risk of collisions with snowplows and maintain a safe following distance.
Time.news based this report in part on reporting by Ideastream and added independent analysis and context.
