Franklin County declares level 3 snow emergency, closing roads to non‑emergency traffic

As of January 27, 2026, Franklin County, Ohio finds itself in the midst of a historic Level 3 snow emergency. This severe weather condition has significantly impacted the county, with all roadways closed to non-emergency personnel, effectively shutting down travel for most residents.

The Level 3 Snow Emergency declared by the Franklin County Sheriff, Dallas Baldwin, marks the first instance of such an extreme measure in the county's history. This emergency level is the most severe and restricts travel to only essential personnel, including emergency vehicles and those who must travel for critical work, such as hospital and airport employees.

The decision to implement a Level 3 snow emergency was driven by the heavy snowfall that began on Sunday and the frigid temperatures that persisted into the workweek. These conditions made it incredibly challenging for crews to clear ice and snow from the roads, necessitating the closure of all but essential travel routes.

The Franklin County Sheriff's Office has emphasized that this emergency is not an automatic enforcement action but rather a critical measure to ensure public safety. The roads are hazardous, with blowing and drifting snow, making travel extremely dangerous for non-emergency vehicles. The county's declaration of a Level 3 snow emergency underscores the severity of the weather conditions and the need for residents to stay off the roads.

The impact of this snow emergency has been profound, with many residents experiencing the county nearly coming to a standstill. For many, this is the first time they have witnessed such extreme weather conditions and the subsequent closure of all roadways. The county's snow Warrior team has been prioritizing the clearing of main roads and state routes, ensuring that essential services can continue to operate despite the challenging conditions.

As Franklin County navigates through this unprecedented weather event, residents are urged to stay informed and follow the guidelines set by local authorities. The Franklin County Sheriff's Office has made it clear that anyone traveling on the roads may be arrested, underscoring the seriousness of the situation. The county remains vigilant in its efforts to manage the snow emergency, ensuring the safety of its residents and the continuation of essential services.

For the latest updates and information, residents are encouraged to download the Franklin County Sheriff's mobile app, which provides up-to-date details on the snow emergency levels and other critical information.