SNOW EMERGENCY LEVELS

The County Sheriff may, pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Section 311.07 declare a “snow emergency” and temporarily close any township, municipal, county, U.S. interstates or state roads within his jurisdiction for the preservation of public peace.  Any person who violates a snow emergency order is subject to prosecution.

The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office utilizes the” Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness” Snow Emergency Classification levels to inform the public about the general condition of roadways throughout the County during a winter storm.  Localized geographical areas within the County may experience better, or worse, road conditions than those listed in a given advisory.  Please monitor weather forecasts before you determine whether to venture out on the roadways.  During storms the volume of emergency calls increase, please do not call the Sheriff’s Office to inquire about road conditions.

Snow Emergency Classifications:

Level 1:  Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow.  Roads may also be icy.  Motorists are urged to drive very cautiously.

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.

To view the state’s weather-related road closures and restrictions, visit the Ohio Department of Transportation’s traffic Web site at http://www.ohgo.com/.