RICHLAND COUNTY — The Richland County Sheriff’s Department issued a Level One snow emergency Thursday at 7:53 a.m.
A Level One snow emergency means roads are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Roads may also be icy. Motorists are urged to drive cautiously.
According to the National Weather Service office in Cleveland, light to moderate snow is expected across northern Ohio and northwest Pennsylvania today through this evening.
Widespread snow accumulation of 1 to 3 inches is expected, with a swath of 2 to 4 inches possible west of I-71. Snow may cover untreated roadways during the morning and evening commute, with visibility as low as one mile at times.
There are two higher levels of snow emergencies that county sheriffs can issue:
LEVEL 2: Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Roads may also be very icy. Only those who feel it is necessary to drive should be out on the roads. Contact your employer to see if you should report to work. Motorists should use extreme caution.
LEVEL 3: All roadways are closed to non-emergency personnel. No one should be driving during these conditions unless it is absolutely necessary to travel or a personal emergency exists. All employees should contact their employer to see if they should report to work. Those traveling on the roads may subject themselves to arrest
