Logan County residents are being urged to prepare for a period of dangerous winter weather, as forecasters are calling for accumulating snow, bitterly cold temperatures and hazardous travel conditions from late Saturday through early next week.
The combination of snowfall and extreme cold is expected to create slick, snow-covered roads, reduced visibility and lingering impacts even after snow ends.
Frigid Conditions Already in Place
Temperatures across Logan County remained well below freezing Friday, with daytime highs struggling to reach the low teens and overnight lows near or below zero. Wind chills have made it feel even colder at times.
With cold air firmly in place, any snowfall that develops is expected to accumulate quickly, increasing the risk of hazardous travel.
Snow Expected This Weekend
Forecasters say snow is expected to develop late Saturday afternoon or evening and continue into Sunday, with periods of steady snowfall possible. Travel conditions are expected to worsen overnight Saturday into Sunday morning.
High temperatures Saturday are forecast near 10 degrees, with Sunday highs in the teens. Overnight lows through the period are expected to hover near or below zero. Lingering snow showers may persist into Monday before tapering off, though very cold conditions are expected to continue into next week.
Accumulations Possible
While exact totals remain uncertain, measurable snowfall is expected across Logan County, with the potential for several inches by the time the system moves out of the region. Blowing and drifting snow may further reduce visibility and worsen road conditions.
ODOT Crews Preparing to Deploy
The Ohio Department of Transportation is urging motorists to avoid unnecessary travel during the storm, particularly during periods of heavier snowfall and extreme cold.
ODOT officials said nearly 200 road crews across southwest Ohio are preparing to deploy and will work around the clock to pre-treat, plow and clear state routes before, during and after the storm.
Officials cautioned that extreme cold reduces the effectiveness of road salt, meaning snow and ice may remain on roadways longer than usual despite ongoing plowing efforts.
Drivers are encouraged to slow down, increase following distance, and give snowplows plenty of room to operate.
Motorists are urged to check OHGO, ODOT’s real-time traffic and road condition system, before traveling.
Sheriff’s Office Alerts & Snow Emergencies
The Logan County Sheriff’s Office may issue travel advisories or snow emergency declarations if conditions worsen. Under Ohio law:
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Level 1: Roads are hazardous; drive with caution.
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Level 2: Travel is discouraged unless necessary.
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Level 3: Roads are closed to non-emergency traffic.
Residents are encouraged to monitor alerts from the Sheriff’s Office and local emergency officials.
Power Outage & Cold Weather Preparedness
Officials are reminding residents to prepare for the possibility of power outages during the storm.
Residents are encouraged to:
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Keep cell phones charged and have backup battery packs or car chargers available.
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Limit non-essential phone use during outages to conserve battery life.
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Ensure an adequate supply of food staples and bottled water is on hand.
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Refill prescription medications ahead of the storm.
Heating & Fire Safety Reminders
As residents turn to supplemental heat sources, safety officials stress the importance of proper use.
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Kerosene heaters should be inspected before use. Fill fuel tanks outdoors, trim wicks properly, and test-light heaters outside before bringing them indoors.
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Space heaters should be plugged directly into wall outlets — never into power strips or extension cords.
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Keep clothing, coats, blankets and other flammable materials well away from heat sources.
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Never leave heaters unattended and turn them off before sleeping.
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Make sure carbon monoxide detectors are installed and working properly.
Generators should be placed at least 20 feet from structures and should never be operated indoors or in garages. They must also be kept well away from doors, windows and vents.
Staying Informed
Residents are encouraged to stay informed through:
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National Weather Service forecasts and alerts
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Logan County Sheriff’s Office notifications
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ODOT’s OHGO road condition system
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Check examiner.org and the Bellefontaine Examiner Facebook page for updates.
