COLUMBUS — Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has declared a statewide emergency Saturday, Jan. 24, as a major winter storm moves into the region, allowing state agencies to mobilize resources and urging residents to prepare for dangerous travel and extreme cold.
The emergency proclamation authorizes state agencies, including the Ohio Emergency Management Agency, Ohio State Highway Patrol and Ohio Department of Transportation, to provide assistance to local governments before, during and after the storm. It also allows the state to streamline purchasing and deployment of equipment, supplies and personnel as conditions warrant.
Forecasters are calling for heavy snowfall across much of Ohio, along with frigid temperatures and hazardous wind chills that could persist for several days. Officials warned that road conditions may deteriorate quickly, making travel dangerous or impossible in some areas.
DeWine encouraged Ohioans to stay off the roads unless travel is absolutely necessary, noting that crashes during severe weather can delay emergency response times and place first responders at additional risk.
The emergency declaration takes effect immediately and will remain in place for up to 90 days unless lifted sooner. State officials said the move is intended to ensure faster coordination and support for local communities as the storm unfolds.
Residents are urged to monitor weather updates, prepare emergency supplies, check heating systems and avoid unnecessary travel until conditions improve.
