Snow may be beautiful if you’re cozy and inside, but if you are one of the unlucky Columbus residents who have to venture out in winter weather, you may be wondering when exactly the roads on your commute will be plowed.
Luckily, there’s a website for that.
The Department of Public Service operates an interactive map that shows snow and ice service activity for the past 72 hours around the city.
Not only can you see which areas have already been treated, but you can also find out what priority your street is. The map is updated every minute, giving you real-time info to help you make the safest decisions when venturing out.
What if you can’t stay at home?
If you have to head out, be sure to give the plows plenty of room to work. The plows are wide vehicles and can cross the centerline or shoulder, so don’t tailgate and do your best not to pass the plow. If you absolutely have to pass, ODOT recommends taking extreme caution and beware of the snow cloud produced by the plow.
If you’d like to take a look at the map to figure out the best route for your commute, please click here.
What do snow emergency levels mean?
Seeing plows on your street is one thing, but during significant winter weather, Franklin County may also declare a snow emergency. These alerts are issued by the county sheriff and are meant to give drivers a clearer picture of just how dangerous road conditions are.
According to the Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness, Ohio uses three snow emergency levels:
- Level 1: Roads are hazardous with blowing or drifting snow and may be icy. Travel is still allowed, but drivers are urged to use caution.
- Level 2: Roads are hazardous and very icy. Travel should be limited to only what is necessary. If you can stay home, this is usually the level where it’s encouraged. Drivers should also check with their employer before heading out and use extreme caution if they must be on the roads.
- Level 3: All roadways are closed to non-emergency traffic. Driving during a Level 3 snow emergency is strongly discouraged unless absolutely necessary or in the case of a personal emergency, and motorists may be subject to arrest.
Even if your street has already been plowed, the current snow emergency level can help you decide whether it’s worth heading out at all.
You can check the current snow emergency level for Franklin County on the sheriff’s office website here.
Featured image courtesy of ODOT.
