Ohio, get ready for a slippery, icy mess—a major ice storm is moving in, bringing freezing rain, sleet, and treacherous road conditions through early Thursday morning.
The National Weather Service has issued an Ice Storm Warning, meaning roads, sidewalks, trees, and power lines could be coated in ice by the time this storm is over. If you don’t have to be out, stay home! Even a thin layer of ice can turn roads into an absolute nightmare and increase the risk of power outages.
Here’s what to expect and how to stay safe.
🌨️ What’s Happening?
A winter storm system is sweeping across Ohio, and unfortunately, it’s bringing the worst kind of winter weather—freezing rain.
- The storm started earlier today and will continue through early Thursday morning.
- Freezing rain is the biggest concern, turning roads, sidewalks, and driveways into ice rinks.
- The heaviest ice buildup will happen overnight, making the Thursday morning commute extremely dangerous.
📍 Who’s Getting Hit the Hardest?
🌨️ Central & Southern Ohio (Columbus, Cincinnati, Dayton)
✔ Up to 0.25 inches of ice accumulation—enough to make roads slick and weigh down tree branches.
✔ Freezing rain will continue into the overnight hours, creating extremely dangerous travel conditions.
✔ Gusty winds could knock ice-covered trees and power lines down, increasing the risk of power outages.
🌨️ Northern & Western Ohio (Cleveland, Toledo, Lima)
✔ A mix of sleet, freezing rain, and snow—expect slippery roads and difficult driving conditions.
✔ Wind gusts up to 30 mph could bring down tree limbs and power lines, causing outages.
🚨 Why This Ice Storm Is a Major Problem
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Dangerous Roads & Black Ice
- Freezing rain looks wet, but it’s actually solid ice.
- Bridges, overpasses, and side streets will be the first to freeze, making them extra dangerous.
- If you don’t absolutely need to drive, DON’T.
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Power Outage Risk
- Ice + wind = falling tree branches, and that means power lines could come down.
- Charge your phone and have flashlights ready just in case.
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Slippery Sidewalks & Walkways
- Even a thin glaze of ice can make walking incredibly dangerous.
- Take small steps, wear boots with good grip, and avoid unnecessary trips outside.
🚗 If You Have to Drive…
✔ Take it slow—even if roads look clear, black ice may be hiding.
✔ Leave extra space between you and other cars—it takes twice as long to stop on ice.
✔ Have an emergency kit in your car—blankets, snacks, water, a flashlight, and a phone charger.
✔ Check road conditions before heading out—visit Ohio 511 (ohgo.com).
🏠 How to Prepare at Home
✔ Charge your devices in case of power outages.
✔ Stock up on essentials—groceries, medications, pet food, and other necessities.
✔ Keep flashlights & blankets nearby—if the power goes out, you’ll want to stay warm.
✔ Be careful on steps and driveways—a light glaze of ice can be nearly invisible.
⏳ When Will It Be Over?
- The worst of the ice storm will continue through early Thursday morning, with hazardous road conditions lasting into the morning commute.
- Temperatures will stay below freezing Thursday, so ice won’t melt quickly.
- By Thursday afternoon, conditions should improve, but roads may still be icy in spots.
This isn’t just another winter storm—this is a dangerous ice event. Even a small amount of ice can make driving and walking nearly impossible. If you don’t need to be on the road, stay inside and wait for conditions to improve.
