COLUMBUS, Ohio – State officials urged Ohioans to take preventive actions for themselves, their homes and vehicles as arctic air bore down on the state.
Overnight temperatures were below zero across central Ohio and wind chills fell to 25 below at Bolton Field in southwestern Franklin County and in Marysville. Air temperatures ranged from a relatively mild 3-below in Grandview Heights to a frigid -11 in Midway and Plain City.
School districts in Columbus and other parts of central Ohio closed because of the cold.
The Ohio Emergency Management Agency is cautioning Ohioans to protect water pipes and check to ensure that neighbors and family members have adequate heating and food and water. They also advised people to dress in layers and leave as little skin exposed as possible to avoid frostbite. They say travelers should keep emergency supplies in their vehicles.
Pet owners were also reminded to bring animals indoors. In Cleveland, where temperatures are expected to remain in the teens or colder through Saturday, officials noted new city ordinances that took effect in December require residents to provide adequate shelter for animals suitable to species, age, condition and size.
The city of Cleveland opened four recreation centers around the clock to anyone who needs to get out of the cold. City officials say these warming centers around the city will remain open until further notice. Facilities for hygiene will be made available at the centers.
According to 10-TV meteorologist Josh Poland, afternoon highs would reach the low teens and temperatures would continue to rise through the evening as a cold front approaches. That front will help to touch off some snow showers tonight, with about an inch of accumulating snow for the Columbus metro area, he said.