District 9 crews working to clear state highways

Cleanup efforts continue following a winter storm and a day of steady precipitation that left behind up to 10 inches of snow in some parts of southern Ohio. 

Crews from the Ohio Department of Transportation – District 9 maintenance facilities have been working throughout the night to plow the state and federal highways, and they are beginning to make some progress on primary routes. However, roadways throughout the area remain snow covered this morning. In addition, the cold temperature has caused ice to form with the snow on the pavement, and periodic wind gusts are causing snow to blow and drift in localized areas.

School closings are widespread Tuesday and include: Hillsboro, Greenfield, Bright Local, Fairfield, Lynchburg-Clay, Adams County/Ohio Valley, Eastern Brown, Southern State Community College and Wilmington College. For more closings and delays, go to: http://www.highlandcountypress.com/main.asp?SectionID=14&TM=26154.07

While ODOT’s snowplow operators will continue plowing today and applying additional salt and other deicers to clear the roads, those who are planning to travel this morning should be prepared and allow additional time to arrive at their destination. Roadways will be slick, so motorists need to drive at a speed well-below the posted limit and maintain a safe following distance behind other vehicles.

Motorists are also reminded to give ODOT crews room to work. A snowplow operator’s field of vision is restricted, so it is important that drivers use their headlights at all times, keep their distance and watch for sudden stops.

ODOT District 9 includes Adams, Brown, Highland, Jackson, Lawrence, Pike, Ross and Scioto counties. For statewide road condition information, visit ODOT on the web at www.Ohgo.com.