Weather Columbus Ohio Snow Emergency: What You Need to Know
Weather Columbus Ohio Snow Emergency, Columbus, Ohio, residents were met with an unpleasant surprise this morning when they woke up to see several inches of snow on the ground and more coming down. The snowfall, which broke Columbus’ previous record snowfall total by more than 6 inches, has forced city officials to put the City under a snow emergency to keep the roads clear for emergency vehicles and other essential travelers.
Following is all you need to know about the Columbus, Ohio, snow emergency, including why it was necessary and what this means for those who live or work in the City.
When is it an Emergency?
Weather Columbus, Ohio Snow Emergency
Weather Columbus Ohio Snow Emergency is declared when the Mayor believes that the amount of snowfall and accumulation creates a public health and safety hazard. In addition, driving conditions are such that only emergency vehicles should be on the roads. The declaration allows the City to take whatever steps are necessary to protect the public. Early responders will have priority access to all major thoroughfares during a snow emergency.
Towing may occur if your vehicle impedes traffic flow or if you have been stranded for more than 30 minutes. Curbside parking spaces will also be ploughed to provide clear passage for emergency vehicles.
A snow emergency lasts for 24 hours after the first 2 inches of accumulation or until lifted by the Mayor, whichever comes first. However, this does not mean all cars should stay off the road.
When Does a Snow Emergency End?
In Columbus, a snow emergency typically lasts 24-36 hours after the last plow has gone through your street. During this time, parking is prohibited on emergency routes so that plows can clear the roads.
After the emergency has ended, you will be able to park on these routes again. However, it is best not to leave your car parked for the entire day when no plows are working on the streets; otherwise, it could get towed and become stuck in a tow lot for days. If you want to wait out an emergency route and avoid being towed, stay with your car until it’s safe enough to drive or walk home.
How do I know if my street has been plowed?
You can find out which streets have been plowed by visiting the City of Columbus website. The website lists all the major streets that have been plowed. If your street is not on the list, it has not yet been plowed.
What do I do if my street has not been plowed? (four sentences): If your street has not yet been plowed, you should call the City of Columbus at 311 and request that they send a snowplow to your street. They will then evaluate whether or not the City needs to spend money on sending a plow truck out for your particular street. Residents are adv to call as soon as possible after the snow emergency declaration goes into effect to focus resources on areas where residents need them most.
For those areas with very thick snow, local fire and EMS departments already have specialized equipment to remove the snow. And have prepared programs to respond to any emergency calls for help. They are the retrogrades in the snowstorm. So the government and the people will present them with firefighter challenge coins to show their respect and gratitude for their tremendous efforts and heroic deeds to thank them.
I don’t drive. Is there help available for me?
Weather Columbus Ohio Snow Emergency
While the City does provide some resources for those who cannot or do not want to drive in the snow, it is essential to remember that they are limited. The best thing you can do is plan and have a backup plan in place. Here are some things to keep in mind:
-The City will provide salt for your sidewalks and driveway, but you will need to shovel the snow yourself. They also recommend that you clear a path at least four feet wide.
Where can I find other updates during the snow emergency?
The City of Columbus website is the best place to find updates during a snow emergency. The website will update the latest information on road closures, parking restrictions, and other essential details. You can also sign up for email or text alerts to stay informed. Once you have signed up for notifications, they will go directly to your phone or inbox. We hope this guide has helped answer any questions you may have about what to do in a snow emergency. If not, feel free to contact us at 877-267-2443.
Reminder – Don’t park on Clearance Streets During Snow Emergencies!

If you live in Columbus, Ohio, you know that snow emergencies are a part of winter life. And while they may be inconvenient, they’re also necessary to keep everyone safe. That’s why knowing the road rules for snow emergencies is essential.
1. Don’t park on Clearance Streets during a snow emergency. Parking restrictions start when the Snow Emergency is declared and remain in effect until one hour after roads have been cleared and plowed or at least 6 hours after the declaration is made, whichever occurs first.
2. Clear all sidewalks within 24 hours of the end of a snow emergency.
More information about parking rules when there’s a winter storm
Weather Columbus Ohio Snow Emergency
When a winter storm hits and the City declares a snow emergency, parking rules change. You need to know here to ensure you don’t get towed or ticketed.
- If it snows three inches or more in one hour, an emergency is declared, and all cars must be parked on the even-numbered side of the street.
- Even if it doesn’t snow that much in one hour, if there are three inches of accumulation on the ground after 24 hours from when it first started snowing, everyone must park on the even-numbered side of the street for 72 hours following that event.
- if the snow emergency is lifted before the total 72 hours have passed, residents can return to parking on either side of the street as they please.
- You may not move your car off an even-numbered side of the street until at least two hours after city crews have cleared your entire block (including both sides).
- Violating these rules can result in a fine of up to $250 and being towed away with your vehicle, subject to storage fees.

Other topics related to winter storms and winter emergencies in Columbus
- If you haven’t already, now is the time to winterize your home. This means ensuring your pipes are insulated, your windows are sealed, and your furnace is in good working order.
- You should also have a winter emergency kit on hand. This should include non-perishable food, water, a first aid kit, extra blankets, and a flashlight.
- When a winter storm hits, stay indoors as much as possible. If you must go outside, take precautions against frostbite by wearing appropriate clothing (such as gloves) and covering any exposed skin with a scarf or hat. If you don’t think walking is safe due to ice or snow, try sliding instead of walking so that you don’t put too much pressure on your feet.
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