A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for Wadsworth from Saturday at 7 p.m. through Monday at 10 a.m. Area meteorologists are forecasting 3 to 7 inches of snow, along with dangerously cold temperatures.
State and local officials are urging residents to slow down, stay prepared, and avoid unnecessary travel if possible. Snow and bitter cold can cause road conditions to deteriorate quickly.
Governor Mike DeWine says state agencies are ready, but drivers play a key role in safety. He’s asking motorists to be patient, take their time, and give snowplows plenty of room to work.
The Ohio Department of Transportation is pre-treating roads, loading trucks, and preparing equipment, but extremely cold temperatures make snow and ice removal more challenging. Once temperatures drop below about 15 to 20 degrees, salt and brine become far less effective, especially overnight without sunlight. That means roads may remain snow-covered or packed, even after plows have passed.
Already this winter, 30 ODOT snowplows have been struck, often due to drivers following too closely or attempting to pass.
Locally, Wadsworth’s Street Department is fully staffed and ready, with crews working around the clock throughout the storm. Roads are treated in priority order, primary routes first, followed by secondary and residential streets, but progress may be slower due to the cold.
Officials also remind residents that extreme cold can impact homes and vehicles, not just roads. AAA recommends checking car batteries and tires, carrying a winter emergency kit, and protecting homes from frozen pipes by maintaining heat, sealing drafts, and knowing where water shutoff valves are located.
Many winter crashes and home emergencies are preventable with preparation, patience, and common sense.
Please slow down, allow extra travel time, stay at least 100 feet back from plows, and avoid travel if conditions worsen.
Stay warm and stay safe, Wadsworth.
