Ohio State of Emergency Declared: What Winter Storm Fern Means for Residents Across the State

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Ohio State of Emergency Declared: What Winter Storm Fern Means for Residents Across the State

♦ Up to 16 inches of snow expected across parts of Ohio this weekend

♦ Governor activates emergency powers to protect public safety and speed response

♦ Residents urged to stay home as roads become increasingly dangerous

Introduction

Ohio is facing a significant winter weather threat as Governor Mike DeWine has officially declared a state of emergency ahead of Winter Storm Fern, a powerful system expected to impact the state with heavy snowfall, dangerous travel conditions, and prolonged disruptions. The declaration, issued on January 24, 2026, is intended to ensure state agencies can act quickly and decisively to protect lives, maintain critical infrastructure, and support local communities during the storm. Forecasts from multiple sources indicate snowfall totals ranging from 8 to as much as 16 inches, depending on location, making this one of the most impactful winter storms of the season.

Storm Overview

Statewide emergency declared January 24, 2026
Winter Storm Fern impacting Ohio and surrounding states
Snowfall estimates vary by region
Travel and emergency response risks expected

Why Ohio Declared a State of Emergency

Governor DeWine stated that the emergency declaration was made proactively due to the damaging and dangerous conditions expected across Ohio. Roads are anticipated to become treacherous, and emergency responders may face delays reaching crash scenes or stranded motorists. At least 15 governors nationwide have issued similar emergency declarations, underscoring the storm’s regional severity. The proclamation allows Ohio to act before conditions worsen rather than react after damage occurs.

Governor’s Action

Emergency declared ahead of peak snowfall
Focus on reducing injuries and fatalities
Response coordinated before conditions worsen
Regional storm affecting multiple states

What a State of Emergency Means in Ohio

Ohio law grants the governor broad authority during a declared emergency, allowing resources to be directed where they are most urgently needed. This includes mobilizing state agencies, authorizing assistance from the Ohio National Guard if necessary, and temporarily suspending certain regulations to speed up response efforts. According to the Ohio Revised Code, an emergency declaration lasts up to 90 days unless extended or ended by the state legislature.

Legal Authority

Governor can mobilize state resources
National Guard activation permitted
Emergency valid for up to 90 days
Legislature retains oversight and control

Role of State Agencies During the Emergency

Multiple agencies are activated under the emergency order, led by the Ohio Emergency Management Agency, which coordinates statewide response efforts and communication with federal partners. The Ohio Department of Transportation and the Ohio Highway Patrol are working alongside local authorities to manage road conditions, traffic incidents, and public safety. Ohio also participates in interstate resource-sharing agreements to ensure help is available if local capacity is exceeded.

Agency Coordination

OEMA leads statewide emergency response
ODOT manages road treatment and plowing
Highway Patrol supports traffic safety
Interstate assistance available if needed

Snowfall Forecasts and Timing

Snowfall projections differ slightly among sources. The National Weather Service estimates up to 12 inches of snow across large portions of Ohio, while FOX19 reports that parts of the Tri-State region could receive between 10 and 16 inches. Winter Storm Warnings are in effect in some areas from Saturday morning through Monday, with snowfall intensifying Sunday and continuing into Sunday night.

Snow Forecast

8–12 inches expected across much of Ohio
Up to 16 inches possible in some regions
Snow begins Saturday, peaks Sunday
Warnings active through Monday

Travel Warnings and Safety Advice

State officials are urging residents to remain at home unless travel is absolutely necessary. The Ohio Department of Transportation advises drivers to reduce speed, increase following distance, avoid unnecessary lane changes, and keep clear of snowplows. Officials stress that staying off the roads not only reduces personal risk but also allows emergency crews to respond more effectively to critical situations.

Travel Safety

Avoid all nonessential travel
Slow down and increase stopping distance
Never pass snowplows unnecessarily
Safer roads allow faster emergency response

Conclusion: Preparedness, Cooperation, and Community Resilience

The declaration of a state of emergency highlights Ohio’s proactive approach to managing severe winter weather. By acting early, state leaders aim to minimize harm, ensure rapid response, and protect both residents and first responders. Winter storms test infrastructure and patience, but they also demonstrate the power of preparedness and community cooperation. By following guidance and looking out for one another, Ohioans can weather Winter Storm Fern safely and emerge stronger together.

Looking Ahead

Early action improves public safety
Community cooperation reduces risk
Preparedness supports faster recovery
Shared responsibility strengthens resilience

Key Points Summary

Ohio declared a statewide emergency ahead of Winter Storm Fern
Snowfall could reach up to 16 inches in some areas
Emergency powers speed up response and resource deployment
Residents are urged to stay home and travel only if necessary

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What does a state of emergency allow the governor to do?
It enables the governor to mobilize resources, coordinate agencies, suspend certain regulations, and request interstate or federal assistance.

Does a state of emergency mean a travel ban?
No, but officials may strongly advise against travel due to dangerous conditions.

How long will Ohio’s emergency declaration remain active?
Up to 90 days unless extended or ended by the legislature.

Who manages emergency response during winter storms?
The Ohio Emergency Management Agency coordinates response with transportation, law enforcement, and local agencies.

Sources

The Columbus Dispatch – Emergency declaration details and Ohio law overview
https://www.dispatch.com/story/weather/severe/2026/01/24/ohio-gov-mike-dewine-declares-state-of-emergency-for-winter-storm-fern/88336988007/
CBS News Pittsburgh – Snowfall forecasts and state agency response
https://www.cbsnews.com/pittsburgh/news/ohio-governor-mike-dewine-snowstorm-state-of-emergency/
FOX19 – Tri-State snowfall expectations and ODOT safety guidance
https://www.fox19.com/2026/01/24/gov-dewine-declares-state-emergency-ohio-amid-winter-storm/

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