Funviralpark Early on December 23, the National Weather Service issued a winter storm warning for most of the state, and many went wild to clear out grocery stores in preparation for the storm.
According to the National Weather Service, “Most of northern Ohio has a winter storm warning in effect, with temperatures well below freezing and winds of up to 50 mph in much of the area. Travel is not recommended as visibility is greatly reduced.”
And the trip was greatly affected. Ohio State Turnpike Rt. His 53 cars piled up near Mile Point 106, resulting in four fatalities and countless injuries.
According to the State Highway Patrol, “Police are responding to multiple collisions on the Ohio Turnpike heading east between US 53 and US 4. Roads are closed in both directions. Weather conditions continue to be hazardous. and travel is discouraged if possible.”
Elsewhere, at least 17 deaths have been reported related to the weather, leaving millions without power. Lorraine High School opened his December 23rd as a warming center for those without heat and electricity.
The Savior Episcopal Church, 647 Reed Avenue, also opened to the public on December 24 as a warming center, along with the annual Christmas community meal.
For many people, this cold weather is new to them. “I’m originally from North Carolina and when there’s a gust of wind, I run to the store to get ready, so this is something we’ve never experienced,” said Brian Russell of Amherst.
For others, the double bad weather, including -16 F wind chill around 3:30pm on December 24th, has many reminiscent of the infamous Covid-19 Christmas two years ago. I have changed my Christmas plans.
The weather is expected to continue to bring cooler temperatures on December 31st and January 1st as storms continue until temperatures eventually rise to around 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
