Summary (tl;dr)

Ohio is currently experiencing severe winter weather, leading to multiple counties declaring Level 3 Snow Emergencies, effectively closing roadways to non-emergency travel due to hazardous conditions.

Essential Background

In Ohio, county sheriffs have the authority to issue snow emergencies, categorized into three levels, to inform the public about road conditions and restrict travel for safety. A Level 1 snow emergency indicates hazardous roads with blowing snow and ice, urging motorists to drive cautiously. A Level 2 declaration means roads are very icy and hazardous with blowing and drifting snow, advising only necessary travel.

The Full Story

As of January 25-26, 2026, numerous counties across Ohio, including Auglaize, Champaign, Clark, Logan, Mercer, Montgomery, Preble, and Franklin County, have declared a Level 3 Snow Emergency. This highest level of emergency signifies that all roadways are closed to non-emergency personnel, and travel is strictly prohibited unless absolutely necessary or for personal emergencies. Those found traveling on the roads during a Level 3 emergency may be subject to arrest. This situation follows a major winter storm that brought significant snowfall, with some areas like the Columbus metro area receiving over 12-16 inches of snow. Additionally, subzero temperatures and widespread, prolonged subzero wind chills are expected throughout the region.

Why It Matters

The declaration of Level 3 Snow Emergencies significantly impacts daily life, halting non-essential travel and potentially disrupting work and school schedules across affected regions. The extreme weather conditions, including heavy snow and subzero temperatures, pose substantial safety risks, making it crucial for residents to stay informed and adhere to travel restrictions for their well-being.

Geographic Location

• Auglaize County, Ohio, United States (under Level 3 Snow Emergency)
• Champaign County, Ohio, United States (under Level 3 Snow Emergency)
• Clark County, Ohio, United States (under Level 3 Snow Emergency)
• Logan County, Ohio, United States (under Level 3 Snow Emergency)
• Mercer County, Ohio, United States (under Level 3 Snow Emergency)
• Montgomery County, Ohio, United States (under Level 3 Snow Emergency)
• Preble County, Ohio, United States (under Level 3 Snow Emergency)
• Franklin County, Ohio, United States (under Level 3 Snow Emergency)
• Butler County, Ohio, United States (under Level 2 Snow Emergency as of Jan 25, 2026)
• Clinton County, Ohio, United States (under Level 2 Snow Emergency as of Jan 25, 2026)
• Darke County, Ohio, United States (under Level 2 Snow Emergency as of Jan 25, 2026)
• Greene County, Ohio, United States (under Level 2 Snow Emergency as of Jan 25, 2026)
• Miami County, Ohio, United States (under Level 2 Snow Emergency as of Jan 25, 2026)
• Warren County, Ohio, United States (under Level 2 Snow Emergency as of Jan 25, 2026)
• Columbus, Franklin County, Ohio, United States (expected 12-16 inches of snow)