Level 3 Snow Emergency issued in multiple Ohio counties: Here's what that means for you

ERIE COUNTY, OHIO, Ohio — As heavy snow continues moving throughout the region, multiple counties in Northwest Ohio are now under a Level 3 Snow Emergency.

So what does this mean for you? Here’s how the Erie County Sheriff’s Office describes a Level 3 Snow Emergency: “Roadways are closed to all non-emergency travel due to extremely hazardous conditions. No one should be on the roadway unless it is absolutely essential to travel. Those operating vehicles on the roadway for non-emergency reasons may be subject to arrest.”

The list of counties under the Level 3 Snow Emergency include:

• Erie County: Until further notice.
• Huron County: Until further notice.
• Ottawa County: Will reevaluate road conditions at 8 p.m.
• Richland County: Until further notice.
• Sandusky County: Until further notice.
• Seneca County: Until further notice.

Getting whipped in the face with snow & ice here in Erie County. Just spoke with the sheriff about the level 3 winter weather road condition warning. Main message: stay OFF the roads. More on @wkyc at 5, 6, 7. @wkycweather #3weather (next time, I’m wearing waterproof makeup) pic.twitter.com/1GVTPIolId

— Isabel Lawrence (@Isabel_News) February 3, 2022

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“While, yes, you COULD be subject to arrest during a Level 3...we are very busy with accidents and other emergencies,” the Sandusky County Sheriff posted on Facebook. “Please, don't make us have to do that. And, technically, you are subject to arrest no matter what the weather conditions are if you are unsafe or acting in a criminal manner. SO BE GOOD!”

Here’s how the other Snow Emergency levels are defined, according to the Erie County Sheriff’s Office:

• Level 1: Roadways are hazardous due to accumulated snow or ice. Drive cautiously.
• Level 2: Roadways are hazardous due to blowing and drifting snow and/or ice cover. Only those who believe it is necessary to drive should be on the roadways. Contact your employer to determine if you should report to work.
• Level 3 (as posted earlier in the story): Roadways are closed to all non-emergency travel due to extremely hazardous conditions. No one should be on the roadway unless it is absolutely essential to travel. Those operating vehicles on the roadway for non-emergency reasons may be subject to arrest.

The Lorain County Sheriff, meanwhile, activated a Level 2 Snow Emergency at 2:47 p.m.

RELATED: List: Snow parking bans issued in Northeast Ohio due to winter storm

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