With less than 48 hours between major winter weather events – which have brought as much as 18-24 inches of snow to some parts of the state – the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) has crews in every county working around-the-clock to keep Ohio’s highways and bridges safe.

The latest winter storm watch from the National Weather Service remains in effect through Wednesday afternoon/early-evening.  Some areas of Ohio may receive six to 12 more inches of snow accumulation.

During this morning’s rush hours, ODOT had more than 1,050 snowplows and trucks on state highways targeting parts of the state on the leading edge of this storm front. More crews are being added throughout the day, as the snow/ice mix moves into northern Ohio and covers the entire state.

In addition, the threat remains for falling trees and power lines due to the weight of the snow and blowing winds.  So the best advice for motorists is to remember that travel conditions can change from mile to mile, minute to minute. Ice and snow… Take it slow.

During the first round of this winter blast, ODOT crews used approximately 23,400 tons of salt. Statewide, ODOT has more than 458,000 tons of salt stockpiled if needed.

Don't crowd the plow

ODOT’s safety experts continue to see a number of crashes involving motorists striking state snowplows, often hitting the snowplow from behind. Across the state this winter season, there have at least 49 crashes with ODOT snowplows, including four fatalities. ODOT appeals to motorists to drive with caution and "Don't Crowd the Plow.”

Being a careful and informed driver is the best way motorists can travel safely . ODOT’s premier website BuckeyeTraffic.org provides up-to-the-minute information on road and weather conditions, road closures, and highway patrol accident updates – all available 24-hours a day, seven days a week.

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