Central Ohio is digging out after a major winter storm dumped close to a foot of snow across the region — and with dangerously cold temperatures settling in, that snow isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
Franklin County is currently under a Level 3 Snow Emergency, meaning roads are closed to all non-emergency travel. Officials say the measure is necessary to give plows space to work and keep first responders safe.
Here’s a roundup of what’s closed, what’s still running, and where to find the most up-to-date information as conditions evolve.
Snow emergency & weather updates
Franklin County’s Level 3 Snow Emergency is the first in more than a decade. Under a Level 3, driving is prohibited unless absolutely necessary, and motorists can be cited or arrested for being on the roads without a valid reason.
You can get updates on the Snow Emergency by visiting the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office website.
School & university closures
Many school districts across Central Ohio have canceled classes, including Ohio State University, which announced no in-person instruction through at least Tuesday.
A full, continuously updated list of school closures is available through local news outlets. You can view a full list of school closures here.
COTA service changes
The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) is operating on a regular schedule Monday, with some important adjustments:
- All rides are free through at least Tuesday
- COTA Mainstream is limited to life-critical trips only
- COTA//Plus service is suspended in parts of the service area, including Grove City and portions of South Columbus
For more info, head over to cota.com.
Trash & recycling updates
City of Columbus trash collection is continuing as scheduled for Monday, but recycling pickup is delayed by one day for customers who normally have Monday service.
You can find the City of Columbus Refuse Collection schedule right here.
Government offices, courts & libraries
Several public offices and institutions are closed or operating remotely, including:
- Columbus Metropolitan Library (all branches closed)
- Franklin County Municipal Court (closed)
- Columbus City Council, which is holding its meeting virtually
Healthcare & community services
Some healthcare services are paused due to road conditions:
- OhioHealth urgent care centers are closed, with teledoc services still available
- Non-emergency procedures and outpatient services are canceled or delayed
Meanwhile, LifeCare Alliance has paused Meals on Wheels deliveries for Monday, but previously distributed shelf-stable meals to clients ahead of the storm.
Grocery stores & attractions
Several grocery chains, including Kroger and Giant Eagle, closed early Sunday but plan to reopen with normal hours on Monday. Shoppers are encouraged to check individual store locations.
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is closed through the week due to snow accumulation and extreme cold.
What’s next?
While snowfall from this storm has ended, Central Ohio’s weather challenges are far from over. The National Weather Service has issued a Cold Weather Advisory followed by an Extreme Cold Warning, with dangerously low wind chills expected through Tuesday.
Wind chills could drop as low as 15 below zero on Monday, then plunge to 25 below zero Monday night into Tuesday. At those temperatures, frostbite can occur on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes, according to the National Weather Service.
Officials are urging residents to limit time outdoors, dress in layers that cover exposed skin, and check on neighbors, especially older adults and anyone without reliable heat. Pet owners are also encouraged to keep animals indoors as much as possible and ensure outdoor animals have warm shelter and unfrozen water.
With snow-packed roads, ongoing plowing operations, and life-threatening cold, authorities continue to stress that non-essential travel should be avoided even as cleanup progresses. Stay safe, Columbus!
