Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Mike DeWine is urging residents across the state to stay alert and take extra precautions as Ohio moves into what officials describe as a long stretch of dangerous Arctic cold, with wind chills expected to plunge far below zero and remain brutal well into early February.
According to the Ohio Emergency Management Agency, the state is currently under a deep Arctic air mass that will keep temperatures well below normal throughout the week. While the heaviest snow threat has eased, the cold is now the main concern. The coldest wind chill conditions are expected from tonight through Tuesday, with wind chill values forecast to fall 20 to 25 degrees below zero. Officials also warned that below-normal temperatures are expected to continue through the first week of February, meaning this is not a short-lived cold snap.
“Although the statewide threat for heavy falling snow has passed, the extreme cold is only just beginning and is expected to last for some time,” said Governor DeWine. “I encourage everyone to take caution for their own health and safety and for the health and safety of family, friends, and neighbors.”
State agencies including the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Ohio Department of Health, Ohio Department of Aging, and the Ohio State Fire Marshal shared guidance meant to keep Ohioans safe on the roads, inside their homes, and outdoors during the dangerous cold.
Travel warnings and winter driving safety tips
With the extreme temperatures expected to last all week, the Ohio State Highway Patrol is urging drivers to stay home if possible. For those who must travel, officials say preparation should begin before the car even leaves the driveway. Drivers are encouraged to make sure tires have good air pressure and tread, the battery is fully charged, and the windshield washer reservoir is full.
Troopers also recommend stocking a winter travel kit in every vehicle. Items should include an ice scraper, shovel, jumper cables, flashlight, blankets, a cell phone charger, a first aid kit, water, and food. Officials stressed that warming items will be especially important during the upcoming week, when breakdowns could quickly turn into emergencies.
When driving on snow, ice, or slush-covered roads, drivers are urged to avoid sharp movements and not slam on the brakes. Increasing following distance is critical, giving more time to stop on low-traction surfaces. If a vehicle begins to skid, troopers say drivers should resist the instinct to panic-brake. Instead, look and steer in the direction you want to go while easing off the pedals.
If a vehicle becomes stuck in snow, drivers should turn on hazard lights and call #677 or 911 for assistance. Officials also emphasized the importance of clearing the tailpipe of debris to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. If a vehicle breaks down or crashes, drivers should turn on hazard lights, move the vehicle as far off the roadway as possible, call #677 or 911, and remain inside the vehicle until help arrives.
Check on older Ohioans and prevent dangerous falls
The Ohio Department of Aging is urging residents to check on older friends, relatives, and neighbors during severe weather. Officials say regular contact helps people feel connected and allows others to spot problems early.
Residents are encouraged to check whether a home’s temperature is comfortable, whether heating is being used safely, and whether there is any damage to the home. They should also check health concerns, including whether someone appears alert, has fallen, is taking medications correctly, or needs medical attention. Daily needs matter too, such as having safe food and water and a reliable way to call for help.
Older Ohioans are also urged to prevent falls and cold weather injuries by wearing boots with good traction, making sure steps and handrails are sturdy, dressing in layers, and limiting exposure by staying indoors.
Fire safety and carbon monoxide dangers rise in extreme cold
The Ohio State Fire Marshal warned Ohioans to stay focused on fire safety, especially when using alternative heat sources. Last winter in Ohio, 108 fires were attributed to space heaters, showing how quickly a heating choice can turn into a disaster.
Officials say space heaters should be kept at least three feet away from anything that can burn, such as curtains, bedding, furniture, or other items. Space heaters should never be left unattended or running while sleeping. They should be plugged directly into a wall outlet, not extension cords or power strips, and people should not plug two space heaters into the same outlet. Choosing models with automatic shut-off features is also recommended.
For fireplaces and wood stoves, officials urge homeowners to have chimneys and flues inspected and cleaned each year. A fireplace screen should be used to prevent sparks and embers from “jumping” into the home, and combustible items should be kept at least three feet away. Only dry, seasoned wood should be burned, not trash, cardboard, or treated lumber. Ashes should cool completely before being placed in a metal container stored outside.
Carbon monoxide remains a major concern. Ohio fire departments responded to 1,786 incidents involving the presence of carbon monoxide in December 2024, January 2025, and February 2025. Officials recommend testing smoke and CO alarms monthly, replacing batteries twice a year, and replacing smoke alarms older than 10 years. Carbon monoxide detectors should be installed on every level of the home, especially near sleeping areas.
Health risks from cold exposure and overexertion
The Ohio Department of Health is warning residents about cold exposure risks, including overexertion while clearing snow and ice. Officials advise taking it slow, stretching first, pushing snow rather than lifting, lifting with legs instead of the back, taking breaks, and drinking water.
They also urged Ohioans to know heart attack symptoms such as chest pain, pain in the jaw or arms, weakness, faintness, and shortness of breath. If symptoms appear, residents should call 9-1-1 immediately.
Officials also outlined warning signs of hypothermia, including shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, slurred speech, and drowsiness. For babies, signs include bright red or cold skin and low energy. Frostbite can also develop quickly, especially on uncovered skin, and may begin with redness or pain before turning numb and pale.
As the Arctic cold settles in, state leaders are urging Ohioans to treat the coming days with seriousness, limit unnecessary travel, check on vulnerable neighbors, and take steps now to prevent emergencies that can become deadly in minutes.
