Northeast Ohio is dealing with a messy mix of snow, ice, and dangerous road conditions today as a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until 7 PM. Morning commuters faced slick roads, heavy bands of snow, and reduced visibility. Travel remains difficult across much of the region.

The City of Akron’s Public Service Director, Chris Ludle, says crews are in full storm-response mode. “We have 50 plus trucks out there and are fully staffed with our trucks. We have our smaller trucks out there helping with intersections.”

Despite the steady snowfall, Ludle is optimistic about the evening drive. “We have a little bit more coming tonight, but this afternoon on your ride home, it should be wide open.”

The Ohio Department of Transportation is also out in force. ODOT spokesman Justin Chesnic says crews have been battling the heaviest bands of snow since sunrise. “We’re getting all those somewhat heavy bands of snow and crews are out there plowing and treating, but you will see snow-covered roads and reduced speeds.”

Chesnic also reminds drivers winter storms during rush hour create unavoidable delays. “All the snow has fallen during the morning rush hour, and our goal is to have the roadways passable but not perfect. You’ll have to go slow today and give yourself some extra time.”

Summit County is under a Level 2 Snow Emergency, as reported online by the Summit Emergency Communications Center. This means driving is discouraged and only ecessary travel is recommended.

Several other communities across northeast Ohio have issued Level 1 or Level 2 snow emergencies as well, as conditions vary from city to city.

Drivers are urged not to park on the streets, both to avoid getting towed and to ensure plow crews have room to work.

Most, if not all, schools in the region closed today due to the amount of snow that fell before and during the morning rush, making early travel unsafe for buses and families.