Snow emergencies in central Ohio for January 5, 2025
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Ohio counties have issued snow emergencies Sunday as a large winter storm is bringing heavy snow showers to the state throughout the afternoon and overnight.
A snowstorm is developing in southern Ohio and is expected to arrive in central Ohio Sunday evening, bringing between 4 and 6 inches in the greater Columbus area, and up to 10 inches of snow in the southern part of the state.
According to the Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness, there are three classifications of snow emergencies.
LEVEL 1:
Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Roads may also be icy. Motorists are urged to drive very cautiously.
- Athens County
- Fayette County
- Guernsey County
- Jackson County
- Muskingum County
- Perry County
- Pickaway County
- Pike County
- Ross County
LEVEL 2:
Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Roads may also be very icy. Only those who feel it is necessary to drive should be out on the roads. Contact your employer to see if you should report to work. Motorists should use extreme caution.
- Hocking County
- Scioto County
- Vinton County
LEVEL 3:
All roadways are closed to non-emergency personnel. No one should be driving during these conditions unless it is absolutely necessary to travel or a personal emergency exists. All employees should contact their employer to see if they should report to work. Those traveling on the roads may subject themselves to arrest.
A winter storm warning is in effect for the following counties until midnight Tuesday:
- Athens County
- Fairfield County
- Fayette County
- Guernsey County
- Hocking County
- Jackson County
- Morgan County
- Muskingum County
- Noble County
- Perry County
- Pickaway County
- Pike County
- Ross County
The National Weather Service has issued winter weather advisories for the following counties:
- Franklin County
- Coshocton County
- Delaware County
- Hardin County
- Licking County
- Madison County
- Union County
According to the latest forecast from Storm Team 4, far southern counties will also experience freezing rain on top of the heavy snow early Monday, where ice accumulation will be close to a tenth of an inch.
Areas near and south of Columbus can expect moderate to major impacts, which typically disrupt daily life and could lead to significant traffic delays and potential school closings.
Follow this link to stay with Storm Team 4’s updated forecasts throughout the weekend on NBC4i.com and the Storm Team 4 weather app in anticipation of this winter storm. You can also follow the latest traffic conditions, school closings, and LIVE VIPIR radar on NBC4i.com and the NBC4 news app.