Central Ohio residents prepare as potential winter storm approaches this weekend

ASHVILLE, Ohio (WSYX) — With the potential for winter weather moving into central Ohio this weekend, residents are starting to prepare for possible snow, ice, and cold conditions.

At Ace Hardware in Ashville, employees say they’ve already seen an uptick in customers looking to stock up on winter essentials. Shelves are filled with salt, snow shovels, heaters, and generators as shoppers plan ahead for any impacts the system could bring.

Store employee Gavin Edwards says demand typically increases as forecasts begin to show accumulating snow or hazardous travel conditions.

“When a storm comes to town, the demand is usually pretty high,” Edwards said. “People come in for salt and shovels, but it’s nothing we can’t handle.”

Some longtime residents say they’re already prepared. Roger Legg, who has lived in Ashville his entire life, stopped by the store but said he wasn’t concerned about the upcoming weather.

“I’m already prepared,” Legg said. “I’ve been through the blizzard in 1977 or ’78. It’s been a while since we’ve had a good snow, but I’m not scared.”

Emergency management officials across Ohio are urging residents not to be complacent. The Ohio Emergency Management Agency says it is closely monitoring forecast models and coordinating with National Weather Service offices as the system approaches.

Scioto County EMA Director Larry Mullins encourages people to prepare now, especially for the possibility of power outages.

“Make sure you have plenty of food — food you don’t have to heat up,” Mullins said. “Think about what you’d need if you’re without power or water for a few days.”

Store managers in Ashville say business was steady earlier in the week, but they expect heavier crowds heading into Thursday and Friday as more people prepare for the weekend weather.

Officials recommend checking emergency kits, limiting travel during hazardous conditions, and staying up to date with the latest forecast as details on the storm continue to come into focus.