BOWLING GREEN, Ohio — As we prepare for a historic winter storm, Ohio State Highway Patrol is getting ready to monitor the roads during potential snow emergencies.
A reminder Ohio has three snow emergency levels:
- 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.
Ohio State Highway Patrol crews often work overtime during these types of winter weather emergencies. Many crews are also called in early to make sure all shifts are staffed properly.
According to the 2020-2021 winter season, there were more than 2,000 crashes in northwest Ohio related to winter weather. Additionally, there were 15,000 statewide winter weather crashes.
Sgt. Ryan Purpura with OSHP Bowling Green Post said troopers communicate regularly with dispatchers about the conditions of the interstates.
"We'll communicate with our dispatchers about any roadways that need attention. They'll communicate with ODOT to get a plow out in that direction" said Sgt. Purpura.
Purpura added drivers should pay close attention to when level 3 snow emergencies are issued. If they are an essential worker, such as a nurse or EMT, they should have some form of work identification on them to show they must be out on the roads.
"If you do have to go to work and are deemed essential, talk to your employer ahead of the snow event so you are prepared" said Sgt. Purpura.