Monday, January 26, 2026 Status: LEVEL 3 SNOW EMERGENCY (Franklin County)
Weather: Extreme Cold Warning taking effect at 6:00 PM tonight.
History was made in Central Ohio this weekend as Winter Storm Fern slammed the region. For the first time since the current emergency classification system was established following the 1978 blizzard, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office has declared a Level 3 Snow Emergency.
As of Monday morning, this highest level of restriction remains in place for Columbus and surrounding Franklin County.
🚨 Current Snow Emergency Levels (Central Ohio Area)
While road crews work tirelessly, many counties remain under strict travel restrictions.
| County | Snow Emergency Level | Status/Notes |
| Franklin County | LEVEL 3 | Roads Closed to non-emergency personnel. |
| Montgomery County | LEVEL 3 | Through morning rush; checking for updates. |
| Fairfield County | LEVEL 3 | Impacted by heavy drifting. |
| Licking County | LEVEL 3 | Extreme hazards reported. |
| Delaware County | LEVEL 2 | Hazardous blowing and drifting snow. |
| Union County | LEVEL 2 | Essential travel only. |
What Level 3 Means: All roadways are closed to non-emergency personnel. No one should be out unless it is absolutely necessary to travel or for a personal emergency. Those traveling on the roadways may be subject to arrest.
❄️ Winter Storm Fern: The Record-Breaker
The storm, which peaked on Sunday, January 25, 2026, brought the Columbus metro area to a standstill with staggering snowfall totals:
- Total Snowfall: 11.9 inches recorded at John Glenn International Airport.
- New Record: Shattered the previous daily record for Jan. 25 (4.7 inches in 1988).
- Historical Context: This tied with the snowiest January day in city history (Jan. 6, 1910).
While the flakes have stopped falling, blowing and drifting snow combined with sub-zero temperatures are making it nearly impossible for plows to reach “blacktop” conditions.
🌡️ Imminent Threat: Extreme Cold Warning
The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Cold Warning for Columbus starting at 6:00 PM tonight.
- Temps: Ambient temperatures will drop to -5°F to -10°F.
- Wind Chill: Expected to reach as low as -25°F.
- Caution: Frostbite can occur on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes at these levels.
🏛️ Major Cancellations & Public Services
- The Ohio State University: All in-person classes are canceled for Monday and Tuesday.
- COTA: Buses are running on limited schedules, but fares are waived through Tuesday to help essential workers.
- Airport (CMH): Significant flight cancellations. Check your status before attempting travel.
- Trash Pickup: City of Columbus trash and recycling services are delayed by at least one day.
🧤 Safety Tips for the Level 3 Emergency
Pet Safety: The Franklin County Dog Shelter is offering emergency boarding for pets if your home loses heat.
Stay Home: The Level 3 is in place specifically to allow ODOT and city plows to work without being blocked by stranded motorists.
Drip Your Faucets: With the extreme cold tonight, keep a slow drip in your sinks to prevent pipes from bursting.
Emergency Hotline: If you need immediate shelter or a warming center, contact the Community Shelter Board hotline at 614-274-7000.