POLITICS

Ohio Declares Emergency Ahead of Major Winter Storm

PUBLISHED Jan 24, 2026, 1:19 PM ET

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Ohio Declares Emergency Ahead of Major Winter Storm

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 11

Center 100%

Sources: 11

Columbus, Ohio. Governor Mike DeWine declared a state of emergency Saturday as Winter Storm Fern approached across the state, directing state emergency agencies to mobilize resources and support local communities and authorizing the Department of Administrative Services to temporarily suspend normal purchasing rules to procure necessary supplies. Forecasts warned of eight to twelve inches of snow with isolated higher totals and dangerously cold temperatures that could hinder travel and slow emergency response. The statewide winter storm warning remains in effect through Monday; at least fifteen other governors issued comparable declarations this week. Based on 7 articles reviewed and supporting research.

By Najma A. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Jan 23, 2025: Governor DeWine directed state agencies to prepare for Winter Storm Fern.
Jan 24, 2025: DeWine declared a state of emergency statewide.
Jan 24, 2025: National Weather Service forecasted eight to twelve inches in parts of Ohio and extreme cold.
Jan 24, 2025: Department of Administrative Services authorized to suspend normal purchasing requirements for supplies.
Jan 24–27, 2025: Statewide winter storm warning active through Monday; multiple other governors issued similar emergencies.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 11
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

State agencies and local emergency responders received authorization and additional procurement flexibility to mobilize supplies and personnel ahead of the storm.

Who Impacted

Residents, motorists, and people without shelter faced increased risk from heavy snow, extreme cold, travel disruption, and potential delays in emergency response.