COLUMBUS, Ohio - Ohio Governor Mike DeWine issued a proclamation this afternoon declaring a state of emergency in Ashtabula, Cuyahoga, Geauga, and Lake counties in response to heavy accumulations of lake effect snow and forecasts of additional severe weather this week. 

In addition to hazardous road conditions, multiple hazards are anticipated in the coming days, including snow squalls and wind gusts of more than 40 miles an hour with potential gales across Lake Erie.

"In addition to the support the state has already provided, we anticipate that more state resources will be necessary as the week progresses," said Governor DeWine. "This proclamation readies our state agencies to assist the impacted counties without delay."

Since heavy snowfall began last week, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) has been working to remove snow on state and local roadways throughout the region. ODOT staff and heavy equipment from nearby counties that did not experience heavy snowfall were relocated to hardest hit areas to supplement local crews in clearing major streets and access to hospitals. 

The Ohio State Highway Patrol also dedicated additional staff to respond to crashes on state roads, as well as to support local law enforcement with traffic crashes on local roads as needed.

The Ohio Emergency Management Agency will continue to engage with the impacted counties to assess needs and offer assistance.