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Midwest Braces for Prolonged Deep Freeze

  //business-finance.news-articles.net/content/202 .. 30/midwest-braces-for-prolonged-deep-freeze.html
  Published in Business and Finance on Friday, January 30th 2026 at 9:35 GMT by 13abc
      Locale: Ohio, UNITED STATES

TOLEDO, Ohio - January 30, 2026 - The Midwest is bracing for a sustained period of extremely cold weather, with temperatures expected to remain well below seasonal averages throughout the weekend and into the beginning of next week. Residents across Ohio, and particularly in northwest Ohio, are urged to prepare for potentially dangerous conditions, including dangerously low wind chills and hazardous travel.

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for several counties, including Defiance, Fulton, Henry, Lucas, Williams, and Paulding, effective until Saturday evening. This advisory highlights the risk of slick road conditions, particularly on bridges and overpasses, due to the plummeting temperatures and potential for localized ice formation. Commuters are advised to allow significantly more travel time and exercise extreme caution.

Temperatures are already beginning to fall, with overnight lows expected to dip into the teens. Saturday's high temperature is forecast to barely reach the low 20s, and the wind chill will make it feel like single-digit temperatures. Sunday offers little relief, with highs remaining stubbornly near 20 degrees. The real bite of the cold will be felt on Monday and Tuesday, however, as highs are predicted to struggle to even reach the teens.

"This isn't just a brief cold spell," explains local meteorologist Sarah Miller. "We're looking at a prolonged period of below-freezing temperatures, which poses a risk to both infrastructure and public health. The extended duration is what concerns us most."

The primary danger associated with this cold snap is hypothermia and frostbite. Exposed skin can freeze in a matter of minutes with the anticipated wind chills, which could drop below zero. Authorities are strongly advising residents to limit time spent outdoors, and if venturing outside is unavoidable, to dress in multiple layers of warm clothing, including hats, gloves, and scarves. Covering exposed skin is critical.

Beyond personal safety, the prolonged cold also presents risks to property. Residents are reminded to protect vulnerable pipes from freezing and bursting. Allowing faucets to drip slightly can help prevent pipes from freezing. Bringing pets indoors is also strongly encouraged, as animals are just as susceptible to the cold as humans. Those with livestock should ensure adequate shelter and access to unfrozen water.

The Toledo Department of Public Utilities is preparing for a potential increase in water main breaks due to the freezing and thawing cycle. Crews are on standby to address any issues that may arise. The city is also reminding residents of the locations of warming centers available for those without adequate heating in their homes. A list of warming centers can be found on the city's website [link to fictional city website].

The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) is actively preparing roadways with salt and de-icing agents. However, the effectiveness of these treatments will be limited in the extreme cold, and drivers are urged to be extra vigilant. The Department reminds drivers that four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive vehicles do not make them immune to icy conditions and that reducing speed is paramount.

This deep freeze is a reminder of the importance of winter preparedness. Having a winter emergency kit in your vehicle, including blankets, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, and non-perishable food, is highly recommended. Checking on elderly neighbors and those with disabilities is also crucial during this time.

13abc will continue to provide the latest updates on the evolving weather situation. Residents are encouraged to stay tuned to local news broadcasts and check online resources for the most up-to-date information and safety guidelines.