Weather
Ohio Winter Weather Awareness Through Oct 31: Ice Storm Danger
Columbus, OH – Ice covered highways, falling tree limbs and widespread power outages can quickly create dangerous conditions across Ohio. As winter weather awareness efforts continue Tuesday, October
By Miles Carter · 2026-10-27T07:49:30.706Z
Columbus, OH – Ice covered highways, falling tree limbs and widespread power outages can quickly create dangerous conditions across Ohio. As winter weather awareness efforts continue Tuesday, October 27, residents are being reminded that freezing rain and river ice jams pose serious threats during the colder months.
According to the National Weather Service NWS , freezing rain occurs when liquid precipitation freezes upon contact with surfaces at or below freezing. Accumulating ice can make travel hazardous, damage trees and power lines, and disrupt electrical service across communities.
How Much Ice Can Cause Serious Problems? Even a thin coating of ice can make untreated roads, bridges and sidewalks dangerously slippery. Accumulations approaching half an inch can cause significant tree damage and widespread power outages.
Drivers traveling Interstate 71, Interstate 75, Interstate 70, Interstate 80 and Interstate 90 should exercise caution when freezing rain is forecast, particularly during overnight and early morning hours.
Ice Jams Can Trigger Sudden Winter Flooding Another dangerous winter threat develops when river ice accumulates and restricts water flow, potentially causing water levels to rise rapidly upstream.
Winter thaws, heavy rainfall and rapid snowmelt can increase flooding risks, especially when frozen ground prevents water from soaking into the soil.
Communities along the Maumee, Sandusky, Cuyahoga, Grand and Muskingum rivers can face ice jam concerns during winter warmups. Ice related flooding can also affect portions of the Ohio River system when conditions support significant river ice formation.
How Ohio Residents Can Prepare Before severe winter weather arrives, residents should take several important precautions:
Keep flashlights, batteries, blankets and emergency supplies accessible. Charge phones and prepare for possible extended power outages. Avoid unnecessary driving during significant freezing rain. Stay away from downed power lines and unstable river ice. Never drive through flooded roadways. Residents can monitor official forecasts and river conditions through the NWS Cleveland office , NWS Wilmington office and NWS Northern Indiana office , which cover different portions of Ohio.
Winter weather awareness efforts continue through Saturday, October 31 , emphasizing the importance of preparing before ice storms and winter flooding threaten communities statewide.