UPDATE: Tips for Weathering the Wintry Blast

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Ohio Department of Public Safety: Ohio Winter Weather Status Update

The Ohio Emergency Management Agency (EMA) continues to monitor the winter storm that is impacting Ohio. As this is a dangerous weather system, the Ohio EMA, Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) and Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) are working together to provide midday status updates throughout the weekend to heighten awareness of critical issues.

“ODOT, the Ohio Turnpike, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, and the Ohio Emergency Management Agency have been working non-stop since the winter storm began to clear the roads and assist motorists.   Thanks to all who have heeded the warnings about the extreme weather and have stayed home,” said Governor Mike DeWine.  “Please continue to monitor the weather, the snow emergency levels in your county, and the road conditions before considering going.   We want everyone to have a safe holiday weekend.”

The information below was valid as of Friday, December 23, 2022 at 1 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, and freezing temperatures. Multiple temperature (wind chill) readings of -37F and -38F have been recorded north of US-30. Wind gusts up to 60 MPH were also recorded this morning.

White-out conditions are being reported across the state. Winter Storm and Wind Chill Advisories and Warnings remain in effect for much of Ohio through Saturday 12/24. Additional snow is expected today through 12/24 in parts of northern and eastern Ohio. Locally heavy lake effect snow and blizzard conditions possible in lake effect areas. The NWS has issued a Blizzard Warning through 4:00 AM Saturday 12/24/22 for the following counties: Cuyahoga, Lake, Ashtabula, Geauga.

Impacts

  • Statewide Power outages continue. Estimated times of restoration (ETR) vary statewide.
  • Strong winds have caused power outages, fallen tree limbs, and minor structural damage.
  • Wind gusts: 60 mph wind gust were measured in Eastern OH; 72 MPH gust in Erie County.
    • Wind Chill:
      • -37F at Findlay in Hancock Co
      • -37F at Sandusky Co Regional Airport
      • -38F at Ashland in Ashland Co
      • -37F at Brunswick, Medina Co
    • Transportation:
      • Multiple counties have declared snow emergencies up to and including level 3.
      • Multiple vehicle accidents have been reported throughout Ohio today, in addition to local traffic impacts.
      • Local public transportation services are competing with hazardous conditions. Reduced speed limit areas are in effect in eastern areas on the Ohio Turnpike.
      • Drifting snow and reduced visibility are causing hazardous driving conditions.
      • Air travel is being affected.
      • Ohio EMA regional staff continue to report traffic incidents in their areas of operation.
      • White out conditions are causing vehicle crashes throughout the state. 

Limiting Factors

  • Strong wind delaying restoration process of power outages.
  • Several interstates and roadways experiencing lane closures due to disabled vehicles and vehicle accidents.
  • Very cold temperatures are impacting the ability of road salt to be effective.
  • Watches, Warnings, and Advisories remain in effect for much of the state.

Ohio Emergency Management Agency/State Emergency Operations Center Actions

  • The State EOC will be at Assessment & Monitoring for the duration of this event.
  • The Ohio EMA Watch Office continues to monitor the state of power outages and ETR’s, currently utility companies are working around the clock responding to outage statewide.
  • County EMAs are encouraged to share any county level coordination efforts and/or support needs in addition to any impacts related to the incident.
  • State partners are encouraged to carry out any necessary intra-emergency support function planning and discussions, in addition to reviewing roles in the Emergency Operations Plan.

Ohio State Highway Patrol Actions

  • The Patrol continues to utilize all available resources to assist motorists on Ohio’s roadways.
  • There have been numerous temporary road closures as a result of jackknifed commercial trucks, downed power lines and crashes. Currently, there are roadways that will be closed for an extended period of time.
  • Since 8:00 a.m. yesterday, the Patrol has handled over 300 crashes and assisted over 1200 motorists.
  • If you find yourself stranded and needing assistance, please dial #677 and a trooper will be dispatched to your location. In an emergency exists dial 9-1-1.

Ohio Department of Transportation Actions

  • A section of the Ohio Turnpike near milepost marker 106 in Sandusky County is closed due to a multiple vehicle crash. The crash occurred due to white out conditions. That section of the turnpike is closed. The parallel SR 2 in adjacent Erie County is closed due to a severe injury accident. With both roadways currently closed, traffic will likely divert to US 20.
  • ODOT has roughly 1,500 plows out at any given time and 3,000 employees assigned to snow & ice operations.
  • Crews are mixing salt with additives to make it more effective in freezing temperatures. Regular salt is much less effective when temperatures drop below 20.
  • ODOT crews will work 12 hour shifts until the weather passes and roads are cleared… including Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
  • While conditions continue, drivers can expect conditions to be passable, but not perfect. ODOT continues to advise Ohioans to be aware of road conditions before you go out and plan that your trip will take longer than it usually does.

 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.

From the Governor’s Office: Ohioans Are Urged to Prepare for Extreme Winter Weather

As a winter storm moves toward Ohio just in time for the busy holiday weekend, the Ohio Emergency Management Agency (EMA) is keeping in constant contact with the National Weather Service and state partners. The Ohio EMA team will continue to monitor the approaching winter weather system and stands ready to provide resources and support to our partners across the state if needed.

“I encourage Ohioans to take this winter storm seriously, and update your emergency preparedness kit with food, water, medicine, and other essential items,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “I also encourage Ohioans to make a list of people to check in on, especially during the Christmas holiday weekend.”

With the predicted snowfall totals, potentially high wind gusts, dangerously low temperatures, and wind chills, it’s important for Ohioans to prepare before, during, and after a winter storm.

Some preventative actions to take include protecting water pipes. When the weather is extremely cold, allow cold water to drip or stream from the faucet served by exposed pipes or pipes along exterior walls. The running water helps prevent pipes from freezing.

Check on your neighbors and family members. Ensure they have adequate heating and enough food and water to sustain the cold weather.   Check on older neighbors to make sure that they have enough food, medicine, and water to get through the expected bad weather and encourage them not to go out in it.

Be cautious of carbon monoxide danger. Carbon monoxide is the leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in the United States. When using alternate heating sources, the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning rises. All homes should have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include: headaches, fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea/vomiting, confusion and drowsiness or unconsciousness. If you or anyone in your home are experiencing any of these symptoms, or your carbon monoxide detector’s alarm sounds, leave the home immediately and call 911. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can kill you, your family, and pets.

Understand generator safety. Generators can be helpful when the power goes out. It is important to know how use them safely to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and other hazards. Generators and fuel should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and attached garages. Install working carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home.

Bring your pets indoors and out of the cold. Animals need protection from the severe cold, so do not allow your animals to stay outside overnight during extremely cold temperatures. Be sure livestock have warm shelter and access to unfrozen drinking water.

If going outside, bundle up and dress in layers. Limit your time outside. Try to have as little skin exposed as possible. Know that frostbite can occur on exposed skin in less than 10 minutes. Symptoms include a loss of feeling and a white or pale appearance in fingers, toes, ear tips, and the tip of the nose. If you see signs of frostbite, seek medical care immediately.

Also, know the signs of hypothermia. They include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, and sometimes drowsiness in older adults and children. In infants, symptoms can include bright red or cold skin and very low energy. Dress babies and children appropriately for the cold. If you notice anyone exhibiting signs of hypothermia, seek medical attention immediately.

If you’re traveling, make sure you have a winter emergency kit in your vehicle. Items to include: flashlight, extra batteries, tools, high-energy snacks, bottled water, car charger for cell phone, extra jackets, gloves, hats, blankets, tools, and battery jumper cables. Call #677 if you need roadside assistance. And remember: Ice and Snow, Take it Slow. Visit www.ohgo.com to learn about road conditions and road closures before heading out.

“Coordination with our state and local partners is of utmost importance when a winter storm is predicted to impact Ohio,” said Ohio EMA Executive Director Sima Merick. “I appreciate the partnership from our response partners and truly appreciate the strength of response that each of our partners brings to the table.”

For additional information on winter weather safety and what to do before, during and after a winter storm, visit the Ohio EMA website: www.ema.ohio.gov, Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness website: www.weathersafety.ohio.gov and Ready.gov: http://www.ready.gov/winter-weather.

NAVIGATING OHIO’S ROADWAYS

Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) crews are ready for winter weather anticipated to move into the central Ohio region late tomorrow into Friday morning. Precipitation is expected to begin as rain before temperatures plummet late Thursday creating a flash freeze throughout the region.

ODOT crews will begin 12-hour shifts Thursday night and work around the clock to ensure roads are safe and passable for the holiday weekend. Even without significant snow accumulations, subzero temperatures and high winds are expected to create hazardous conditions on two of the busiest holiday travel days. Drivers should consider adjusting their plans to avoid travel Thursday night and Friday morning, if possible.

When it comes to ice, salt is our best defense; However, roads will be slick, and blowing snow will cause low visibility. If travel is essential, drivers should use extreme caution and allow plenty of extra time. Most importantly, don’t crowd the plow and give our crews room to work.

HOLIDAY TRAVEL

As 4.6 million Ohioans get ready to travel this holiday, weather forecasters are predicting a winter storm that will bring treacherous travel conditions. AAA reminds travelers to prepare now and adjust plans, if necessary.

The majority (91%) of Ohio travelers will drive to their destination his holiday season. INRIX, a provider of transportation analytics and insights, expects Friday, Dec. 23 to be one of the most congested days on the roads. That’s also the day forecasters are predicting the worst driving conditions on Ohio’s roads.

Winter is the deadliest season on U.S. and local roads, according to an analysis from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. Researchers found nearly half a million (456,000) crashes and more than 2,000 deaths occurred during adverse weather and/or road conditions during the winter months (December, January, February).

Since Ohioans haven’t driven in snowy conditions for months, it’s important to remember the following when driving in winter weather:

  • Slow down: Always adjust your speed to account for less traction when driving on snow or ice. This often means driving below the posted speed limit.
  • Accelerate and decelerate slowly: Apply the gas slowly to retain traction and avoid skids. Also remember, it takes longer to slow down on slick roads.
  • Increase following distance: Allow five to six seconds of following distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you. The extra space will allow you time to stop safely.
  • Never use cruise control: Using cruise control on any slippery (wet, ice, snow, sand) surface can cause your vehicle to lose control more easily.
  • Don’t panic: If you start to slide, hitting the brake is the worst thing to do. Instead, take your feet off the pedals and keep your eyes focused on where you want to go.
  • Leave early: Expect trips to take longer in bad weather.

Winter Breakdowns:

Roadside assistance calls often double, or triple, during winter weather. AAA is expecting extremely high call volumes Friday, Saturday, Monday and Tuesday. With temperatures expected to dip into the single digits at night, and highs in the teens and 20s, battery-related calls will most likely be the largest percentage of emergency roadside assistance calls.

Motorists can help prevent winter breakdowns with preventative vehicle maintenance, including:

  • Battery: The average life of a battery is 3-5 years. Cold weather can drain batteries quickly, and leave drivers stranded. Have a technician inspect the battery at least twice a year.
  • Tires: Adequate pressure and tread depth are essential for stopping and going on ice and snow, but tire pressure can drop during cold weather. Make sure tire pressure matches the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb and the tread depth is above the wear bar indicators marked on the tires.
  • Replace old windshield wipers and solvent: Precipitation and salty spray from the roads often make it hard to see when driving during the winter. Solvent and good windshield wipers can greatly improve visibility.

During winter storms and extreme cold, it may take longer for help to arrive. That’s why it’s important to be patient and pack an emergency roadside kit that includes blankets and extra clothes to stay warm, flashlights and extra batteries, an ice scraper, safety reflectors, a shovel, a first aid kit, a simple tool kit, water and non-perishable food, jumper cables and a mobile phone and charger to call for help.

Air Travel Tips:

AAA expects a 14% increase in air travel this holiday season, compared to last year, with 7.2 million Americans planning to fly. When winter storms hit, flight cancellations can ripple across the country. AAA travel advisors recommend the following for those flying this holiday season.

  • Download your airline’s app to be sure you get push notifications on any delays or cancellations.
  • Plan on arriving at the airport two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international flight.
  • Check your flight status before leaving for the airport.
  • Try to pack light and take a carry-on only, so your bag is always with you if your flight is delayed or cancelled.
  • If you need to check a bag, put something like an Apple air tag in it, so you can track it if it’s lost. Also, pack all medications, snacks and change of clothes in a carry-on bag.
  • Know your rights as an air passenger and review your airline’s contract of carriage for information on their policies for flight delays, cancellations and rebooking. By law, travelers are entitled to a refund when an airline cancels their flight.

AAA provides more than 63 million members with travel-, insurance-, financial- and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA clubs can be visited online at AAA.com.

CREWS MAKE STEADY PROGRESS RESTORING POWER AMID ONGOING WINDS

AEP UPDATE (Dec 23): Gusting winds of up to 60 mph have caused scattered outages through our service territory. As of 1:00 p.m., more than 13,000 AEP Ohio customers are currently without power as a result of Winter Storm Elliott. Crews worked overnight on power outages, with fresh crews arriving this morning to continue assessing damage and when possible restoring power. Crews have made steady progress restoring power; however, ongoing winds continue to create new outages. For customers currently without power, please know our men and women are working as quickly as they safely can.
Treacherous road conditions, lingering wind gusts and extreme wind chills are creating challenges for our crews and slowing restoration efforts.
Our meteorology team is continuing to closely monitor weather conditions — with a second round of high winds expected this afternoon and into tonight likely causing additional power outages.
Updates will continue throughout the weather event at AEPOhio.com and through other communication channels.
WARMING CENTERS & SHELTERS
As local organizations continue to establish warming centers and shelters, additional details and locations will be added to AEPOhio.com/OutageMap. Here is a list of winter warming stations that are open to the community. Residents in need of shelter can also call the Community Shelter Board’s Homeless Hotline at (614) 274-7000 to be connected to a nearby homeless shelter. If you know of any older residents in your community, assistance is available through the Office On Aging on December 23 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. by contacting their office at (614) 525-6200 for support. The Office On Aging will be closed on Monday, December 26 in observance of the Christmas holiday, but will resume normal business operations on Tuesday, December 27 at 8 a.m.  Another great resource to have on hand is the City of Columbus’ Customer Service Center, which is a one-stop shop for all non-emergency city services. They can be reached by dialing 311.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
My power is out. Why do I see your lineworkers just sitting in front of my house?
There are many reasons why a lineworker is in their vehicle. Given today’s subzero temperatures, it’s very possible that the lineworker is taking a much-needed break to prevent frostbite or hypothermia. Field personnel may also be in a vehicle to complete a safety briefing, to communicate back with our dispatch center, coordinate materials needed to restore power or take a meal break. We assure you that all field personnel have a goal of restoring your power as quickly and safely as possible.
Should I call AEP Ohio to report my power outage?
Immediately after a major storm like this, we ask that you report only safety hazards such as downed power lines or equipment that is sparking. Often, we’re already aware of damage to our systems such as transmission lines and distribution circuits. Your calls help us focus resources on hazards that are not automatically picked up by our monitoring systems.
What should customers do if they see downed lines?
Don’t touch it or anything near it. Even telephone or cable lines can become energized. Keep yourself and others far away and call 911 and AEP Ohio immediately at (800) 672-2231.
If a downed line is touching your vehicle, stay put and call 911. It’s important that you don’t exit the vehicle unless you’re in imminent danger. Honk the horn, roll down your window and make sure to tell passersby not to come near the vehicle. If you have to exit a vehicle that has come in contact with downed lines, remove loose items of clothing, jump clear of the vehicle, landing with both feet together. Keep your feet together and shuffle or “bunny hop” away from the car. View a video demonstration here.
How does AEP Ohio handle tree damage?
Our tree crews are among the first responders as they work to safely clear trees from our lines and equipment and move to the next location as quickly as possible to allow our line crews to restore power. We do not remove cut trees or limbs during emergency power restoration. In these instances, property owners are responsible for removing tree debris.
Don’t attempt to remove tree limbs or debris yourself if it is within 10 feet of a power line. Also, if you notice downed lines or sparking equipment, stay far away and call 911 and AEP Ohio at (800) 672-2231.
STAY CONNECTED
CONTINUED REMINDERS: ADDITIONAL SAFETY TIPS
  • Check on family, friends and neighbors who are elderly, have small children or have a medical condition.
  • Limbs, leaves and other objects moved by the wind and ice build-up could hide downed wires. Investigate your surroundings before trying to clean up any debris.
  • Notify AEP Ohio if you’re using a generator. This protects you and our lineworkers as they work to restore power.
  • Never operate lanterns, heaters or fuel-fired stoves without proper ventilation.
  • Unplug major appliances to protect them when power is restored.
  • Refuel heaters, lamps and generators outside and away from any flames or sparks. Wipe up spilled fuel immediately.
  • Never burn charcoal indoors — it releases poisonous carbon monoxide.
  • If on the roadway, remember to take it slow and increase your following distance so you’ll have time to stop for vehicles ahead of you.
  • For the health and safety of AEP Ohio crews, please stay at least 6 feet away from our employees, vehicles and equipment.