In The News 24 January 2026

Governor DeWine declares state of emergency in Ohio

The Highland County Press - Staff Photo - Create Article

COLUMBUS — Ohio Governor Mike DeWine issued a proclamation today proactively declaring a state of emergency due to the damaging and dangerous conditions Winter Storm Fern is expected to bring to Ohio.

According to the National Weather Service, the storm could drop up to 12 inches of snow in parts of the state this weekend. Frigid temperatures are also expected before, during, and after the storm.

The proclamation documents Governor DeWine's directive on Friday that state agencies, including the Ohio Emergency Management Agency, Ohio State Highway Patrol, and Ohio Department of Transportation, provide additional resources and support to local communities as needed.

The proclamation also directs the Ohio Department of Administrative Services to suspend normal state purchasing requirements to procure any necessary resources or supplies to protect the health, safety, and welfare of Ohioans.

"I continue to encourage everyone to stay home this weekend unless it's absolutely necessary to be out," said Governor DeWine. "We're expecting the roads to be treacherous in some places, and if you crash, first responders may not be able to get to you quickly."

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••• Publisher's note: A free press is critical to having well-informed voters and citizens. While some news organizations opt for paid websites or costly paywalls, The Highland County Press has maintained a free newspaper and website for the last 27 years for our community. If you would like to contribute to this service – and want it to continue – it would be greatly appreciated. Donations may be made to: The Highland County Press, P.O. Box 849, Hillsboro, Ohio 45133. Please include "for website" on the memo line.

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