The information below was valid as of Friday, December 23, 2022 at 7 p.m. EST.
The information in this status update is rapidly changing and information may not be accurate beyond the date/time listed.
Status
The winter weather system continues to move across the state producing snow, high winds, freezing temperatures and whiteout conditions. Extremely cold temperatures combined with wind chill are making it dangerous to be outdoors. Winter storm warnings have been extended until Saturday morning at 7 a.m.
While very little snow accumulation is expected, frequent wind gusts over 30 mph. overnight will support blowing snow and continued hazardous whiteout conditions. These are dangerous conditions, avoid travel if possible.
“We expect winds and dangerous wind chills to continue overnight and into tomorrow. This continues to cause blowing snow which leads to whiteout conditions,” said Colonel Charles A. Jones, Ohio State Highway Patrol. “As a result, this creates very hazardous driving conditions. If possible, motorists are encouraged to stay off the roadways.”
Impacts
- Statewide power outages continue. Estimated times of restoration (ETR) vary statewide.
- Wind gusts continue to reach 30-40 mph across the state. Wind gust reports include: Chillicothe/29 mph, Columbus/29 mph, Dayton/38 mph. With frequent wind gusts over 30 mph during the overnight hours.
County/Local Actions:
- A limited number of counties have indicated opening their EOC for monitoring purposes at this time.
- Warming shelters are open in numerous local jurisdictions across the state.
- County sheriffs are declaring Snow Emergency Levels as needed.
The next update will be distributed on Saturday, December 24, 2022 at 2 p.m. EST.