How many levels of snow emergency are there and what does each one mean?
In Ohio the state government uses a warning system to alert the public to the threat of snow storms. What does each level mean?
A major collision on the Ohio Turnpike, involving over fifty vehicles, claimed at least one life on Friday afternoon as holiday travelers hit the road during one of the largest storms in recent years. The massive crash has led officials to close the roadway and offers stark warnings to drivers that it may be best to stay home until the bad weather passes.
Dramatic videos show the scene of a deadly pileup on the Ohio Turnpike that involved approximately 50 vehicles during snowy conditions.
— ABC News (@ABC) December 23, 2022
One person died and multiple people were injured, Ohio Highway Patrol said. https://t.co/qbrkoZswJU pic.twitter.com/OvJQzKjV4w
Dozens of emergency vehicles have reported to the scene and are working to identify drivers and passengers with extensive injuries. The Turnpike is now closed in both directions; those driving westbound will be diverted at Exit 118 US 250/Sandusky, while drivers going east will be diverted at Exit 91 (SR 53/ Sandusky). Sandusky County is under a Level 3 Snow Emergency Advisory, meaning anyone on the road without an appropriate justification could be arrested.
ALERT UPDATE: All WB traffic will be diverted off at Exit-118 US 250/Sandusky) all EB traffic will be diverted off at Exit-91 (SR 53/Sandusky). All EB/WB lanes remain blocked @ MP 106.0 (Sandusky Co) due to multiple crashes, long delays expected.
— Ohio Turnpike (@OhioTurnpike) December 23, 2022
In the Buckeye state, local and state officials can declare a snow emergency, which has three levels of severity, to inform residents of the risks they may face on the road.
What are the three snow warning levels?
“Level 1″ describes conditions on roadways that are “hazardous with blowing and drifting snow” and possible ice. The state says under these circumstances, “Motorists are urged to drive very cautiously.”
The second level, “Level 2″ roads are considered in worse condition than Level 1. When this warning appears, workers should contact their employer to see if coming in is necessary because “extreme caution” should be used when driving.
Under a “Level 3″ advisory, roads are closed to all except emergency personnel. Drivers can be arrested if they are out driving and should contact their employer to see if reporting is necessary.
Where are snow emergency warnings active in Ohio?
Several jurisdictions have issued snow warnings, some of which have reached “Level 3.”
Level 1 - Use caution roads may be icy, and visibility may be obstructed:
- La Grange
- Lorain County.
Level 2 - Use extreme caution; necessary driving should be avoided:
- Ashland County
- Portage County
- Summit County.
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Level 3 - Roads closed to all but emergency personnel:
- Erie County
- Huron County
- Sandusky County.
Residents of other states under weather advisories are being encouraged by officials to check information released by local authorities to see if there are any mobility restrictions as the storm passes.