COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Ohio Statehouse is closed to the public on Monday as winter storm Fern continues to impact central Ohio. The Ohio Senate has also postponed committee hearings scheduled for Tuesday and its floor session planned for Wednesday.
State Government Operations Continue
Despite the public closure, the Statehouse remains open to legislators and employees, according to the Capitol Square Review and Advisory Board. A full closure of state offices would require a formal public safety emergency declaration from the Ohio Department of Public Safety.
Travel into downtown Columbus is currently restricted to emergency situations only. Franklin County remains under a Level 3 snow emergency as of Monday morning.
Understanding Snow Emergency Levels
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine stated on Friday that the state’s 88 county sheriffs are responsible for determining their respective snow emergency levels. He described the process as “a rolling decision in regard to what the dangerous conditions are out there.”
Madison County Sheriff John Swaney previously explained that a Level 3 emergency signifies conditions where law enforcement and emergency crews may be unable to assist stranded drivers. “Our troopers are not able to respond to cars in the ditch,” Swaney said. “Our squads can’t get to render you aid.”
Sheriff Swaney also noted that even with similar snowfall amounts, counties may issue different emergency levels based on their available resources. Violating a Level 3 travel restriction could result in fines.
Forecasters anticipate the continuation of snowfall and frigid temperatures, potentially remaining in the teens or below zero through January. This suggests that much of the accumulated snow is unlikely to melt before next month.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Level 3 snow emergency mean?
A Level 3 snow emergency means law enforcement and emergency crews may not be able to reach stranded drivers, according to Sheriff John Swaney.
Will all state offices be closed?
No, state offices will only close if the Ohio Department of Public Safety declares a formal public safety emergency.
How long is this weather expected to last?
Temperatures are projected to remain in the teens or dip below zero through the end of January, meaning much of the snow likely won’t melt until next month.
As winter storm Fern continues to impact the region, how will these conditions affect your daily routines and preparedness?
