Ohio Counties Declare Level 3 Snow Emergency Amid Heavy Snowfall

CIRCLEVILLE, Ohio (WSYX) — Pickaway and Washington counties in Ohio have declared a Level 3 snow emergency following heavy snowfall on Monday, January 6, 2025. The emergency status, which mandates that all roadways are closed to non-emergency personnel, was issued to ensure public safety and allow road crews to clear snow effectively.

Washington County Sheriff Mark A. Warden announced the decision after consulting with road deputies, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT), and local authorities. “No one should be out during these conditions unless it is absolutely necessary to travel,” Warden emphasized. Violators risk arrest if found driving without a valid emergency reason.

In Pickaway County, Sheriff’s Office officials confirmed that the Level 3 emergency would remain in effect even after the snowfall ceased, as high winds were expected to complicate cleanup efforts. “We don’t want to allow more drivers on the roadways until conditions are clear,” a PCSO spokesperson told ABC6 News.

Local residents expressed concern over the hazardous conditions. “I see a couple of cars driving through, and they are just skating around,” said Circleville homeowner Colin Hedges, who stayed home from work. “No one should be out here in this.”

Despite the severe weather, no major crashes were reported, though several vehicles slid off roadways. The sheriff’s office warned on Facebook that drivers caught on the roads for non-emergency reasons could face arrest.

Businesses and schools across the region were also impacted. Schools closed for the day, and some businesses delayed their decision to shut down until Monday morning. Ritch Verito, owner of Ritchie’s New York Corner Deli in Circleville, noted a significant drop in foot traffic. “Today with the snowstorm going on, it’s not really hopping,” he said, though he continued to receive carry-out orders.

Residents like Donald Spears, who spent 12 hours shoveling sidewalks and parking lots, described the conditions as “a mess.” Most locals predicted that roadways would not be fully cleared for another day or two, prompting many to shelter in place until the emergency is lifted.