COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Ohio counties have issued snow emergencies as winter weather hit the region for the first time in 2025.
Forecasts call for measurable snow to fall into the early morning hours Friday. While amounts aren't predicted to be much, any amount can cause hazards on the roadways.
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.
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.
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.
Additionally, a winter storm watch has been issued by the National Weather Service for the following counties:
According to NBC4 meteorologist Ben Gelber, light snow, approximately 1-to-2 inches, will taper off in the morning to flurries, with slippery travel conditions in near-freezing weather. Winds will become gusty behind the disturbance in the afternoon (NW 20-25 mph), resulting in some blowing snow, and wind chill values sinking into the 10s, along with lake-enhanced snow showers.
The NWS says that a winter weather advisory for the Columbus area is in effect until 10 a.m. and cautions that travel could be difficult throughout the morning. Weather conditions could impact the Friday morning, with roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, to likely become slick and hazardous.
