Ross County Issues Severe Winter Weather Alert; Residents Urged To Exercise Extreme Caution

Article presented by Rathkamp Financial …

CHILLICOTHE, OH – January 22, 2026

Ross County officials, in cooperation with the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT-District 9) and local county and township authorities, have issued a severe winter weather alert due to the impending forecast of significant snow and possible ice accumulation. Current forecasts from the National Weather Service Wilmington OH office indicate that life-threatening, severe winter conditions will begin on Saturday, making travel dangerous. New weather models indicate 8 to 12 inches of snow is expected for Ross County Saturday and Sunday. The primary goal of all road crews is to ensure roads are passable, not perfect, and drivers must adjust their behavior to match the conditions.

Road Crew Preparations and Operations
State, county, and township road crews are prepared and will be fully mobilized when needed for the incoming weather event.

• Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT): Statewide, ODOT will deploy crews to treat and plow all state and U.S. routes, as well as interstates. Mechanics have performed 150-point checks on nearly 1,700 trucks, ensuring readiness. Crews have over 800,000 tons of salt on hand. The target is to have primary routes up to speed within two hours of a snow event ending, and secondary routes within four hours. Real-time traffic information is available on the OHGO website and mobile application.
• Ross County Engineer’s Office: County crews will utilize heavy-duty dump trucks equipped with plows, salt spreaders, and liquid de-icing units to tackle snow and ice on county roads.
• Township Road Departments: Local township crews are also preparing their equipment. They advise that snowfalls of less than two inches will primarily be treated with de-icing salt or cinders, while larger accumulations will require plowing.

Motorists are reminded to “Don’t Crowd the Plow”; give snowplows at least 200 feet of space to work effectively and be aware of “snow clouds” that can temporarily limit visibility.

Snow Emergency Levels
The Ross County Sheriff’s Office has the authority to declare a snow emergency level based on road conditions:

• Level 1 Snow Alert: Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow and may be icy. Motorists should use caution.
• Level 2 Snow Advisory: Roadways are very hazardous. Only those who feel it is necessary to drive should be on the roads. Contact your employer to see if you should report to work.
• Level 3 Snow Emergency: All roadways are closed to non-emergency personnel. No one should be driving unless absolutely necessary, and violators may be subject to arrest.

Check the current snow emergency level on the Ross County Sheriff’s Office website or stay tuned to local media for updates.

Safe Driving Tips
Ross County law enforcement officials and the Emergency Management Agency urge all drivers to prioritize safety and avoid unnecessary travel during severe conditions. If travel is unavoidable, please follow these essential safety tips:

• Slow Down: The posted speed limit is for ideal conditions, not snowy or icy roads.
• Increase Following Distance: It takes significantly longer to stop on slick pavement. Maintain a distance of five to eight seconds between your vehicle and the one ahead.
• Avoid Sudden Movements: Accelerate, brake, and steer smoothly to maintain traction. Do not slam on your brakes; if you have anti-lock brakes, press down firmly and hold.
• Do Not Use Cruise Control: Avoid using cruise control in slippery conditions, as it can cause loss of control if your vehicle starts to skid.
• Prepare Your Vehicle: Ensure your car is winterized with proper tire pressure, good tread, full fluids (especially washer fluid and antifreeze), and working lights/wipers. Keep your gas tank close to full.
• Pack a Winter Emergency Kit: Stock your vehicle with items such as an ice scraper, blankets, jumper cables, flares, a first-aid kit, a flashlight, a phone charger, and sand or cat litter for traction.
• Plan Ahead: Check weather and road conditions using the OHGO map before leaving. Leave early and allow plenty of extra time for your commute.

Prepare Your Home for Severe Winter Weather
Severe winter weather can bring extreme cold, snow, ice, and power outages. Taking steps now can help protect your home and keep your family safe.

Before the Storm

• Protect pipes: Insulate exposed plumbing and know how to shut off your home’s water.
• Check heating systems: Service furnaces, fireplaces, and space heaters; stock extra fuel if needed.
• Seal drafts: Weather-strip doors and windows to retain heat and lower energy loss.
• Stock emergency supplies: At least three days of food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, and a NOAA weather radio.
• Prepare for power outages: Charge devices and ensure generators are used outdoors only.
• Test safety devices: Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Clear gutters and drains: Reduce the risk of ice dams and water damage.

During Extreme Cold

• Prevent frozen pipes: Let faucets drip slightly during prolonged freezing temperatures.
• Circulate warm air: Open cabinet doors under sinks.
• Maintain indoor heat: Keep thermostats set at a consistent temperature.
• Use heaters safely: Keep space heaters at least three feet from anything flammable.

If Power Is Lost

• Conserve heat: Close off unused rooms.
• Stay warm safely: Wear layers and use blankets.
• Avoid carbon monoxide risks: Never use grills, ovens, or vehicles to heat your home.

After the Storm

• Inspect for damage: Check for frozen or burst pipes and address leaks immediately.
• Clear snow safely: Remove snow from vents, exhaust pipes, roofs, and walkways.
• Watch for ice dams: Look for signs of water intrusion and take action early.

Safety is a shared responsibility. By taking precautions, preparing vehicles and homes, and adjusting driving habits, residents can help ensure a safer winter season for everyone.

Mark A. Thompson
Ross County EMA Director