Ohio – A prolonged winter storm brought widespread heavy snowfall across Ohio from January 23 through January 26, with top totals approaching 17 inches, according to compiled storm reports.
The highest snowfall total reported in the state was 16.9 inches in Zanesville (1 mile southeast), making it the snowiest observed location in Ohio during the multi-day event. Several additional communities across eastern and northeastern Ohio recorded snowfall totals exceeding 15 inches, highlighting the storm’s strongest impact zone.
Among other high-end reports, Bellaire measured 16.3 inches, while Salem (1 mile north-northeast) reported 15.8 inches. Boardman and Sugarcreek each recorded 15.0 inches, placing them among the hardest-hit locations statewide.
Additional snowfall totals include 14.5 inches in East Liverpool, Hanoverton (4 miles northeast), and Mineral City (1 mile southeast). Farther west and central portions of the state saw lower but still significant totals, including 12.1 inches in Gahanna (2 miles south-southwest) and 11.5 inches in Dayton.
In central Ohio, Mount Vernon recorded 10.8 inches, while along the Lake Erie shoreline, totals dropped sharply. Cleveland Hopkins International Airport measured 5.1 inches, reflecting the storm’s tight gradient between inland areas and immediate lakeshore communities.
Snow accumulated steadily over multiple days rather than falling in a single intense burst, prolonging hazardous travel conditions. Major corridors including Interstates 70, 71, 75, 76, and 77 experienced periods of slick roads, reduced visibility, and slowed traffic, particularly during overnight and early morning hours.
Cleanup operations continued after snowfall ended as cold temperatures limited melting, allowing snowpack to persist on secondary roads, bridges, and shaded areas.
The January 23–26 storm ranks among the most significant snow events of the season for Ohio, contributing substantially to seasonal snowfall totals, especially across eastern and northeastern portions of the state.
