MOUNT VERNON – Knox County residents remain under both a winter storm warning and a wind chill warning until Saturday morning.
The Knox County Sheriff’s Office reported an upgrade to a Level 2 Snow Advisory at 6 a.m. Five hours earlier, a Level 1 Snow Advisory was made.
“Plow crews are out doing what they can. The high winds are creating some visibility problems in open areas,” the Sheriff’s Office said in a Facebook post.
A Level 2 Snow Advisory means roads are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow and roads could be icy, the Mount Vernon Police Department reported on its Facebook page. Only motorists whose travel is necessary should be on the roadways.
The National Weather Service said dangerously cold wind chills will occur as low as 35 below zero. This warning remains in effect until 10 a.m. Saturday.
“With the high potential of extremely cold temperatures and high winds, we will be opening a warming center tonight at midnight,” the Fredericktown Police Department said in a Facebook post. “It is located at the Fredericktown Community Center located at 182 S. Main St., Fredericktown. It is in the same building as the Fredericktown Ohio Police Department.”
Heavy snow accompanied the winter storm warning, with additional accumulations of up to one inch forecast. Wind gusts will reach as high as 60 mph, according to the forecast. This warning remains in effect until 7 a.m. on Saturday.
The cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes, according to the National Weather Service.
“Plan on slippery road conditions. Areas of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility,” the forecast said.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol had handled more than 300 crashes and assisted more than 1,200 motorists since 8 a.m. Thursday through 1 p.m Friday. It reported numerous temporary road closures resulting from jackknifed commercial trucks, downed power lines and crashes, the Ohio Emergency Management Agency reported.
“ODOT, the Ohio Turnpike, the Ohio State Highway Patrol and the Ohio Emergency Management Agency have been working non-stop since the winter storm began to clear the roads and assist motorists,” said Gov. Mike DeWine. “Thanks to all who have heeded the warnings about the extreme weather and have stayed home.”
Strong winds could cause tree damage.
The greatest potential for strong winds and blowing snow will be this afternoon and tonight. The temperature will remain in the single digits for almost 48 hours, from Friday through Sunday.
“This combined with the strong winds would allow for a long period of wind chills well below zero. Temperatures this cold for an extended period of time will impact infrastructure across the region with frozen pipes a concern,” the National Weather Service said.
Residents are advised to avoid outside activities if possible. When going outside, they are advised to wear appropriate clothing, including a hat and gloves. Travelers should keep an extra flashlight, food and water in their vehicles in case of emergency.
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