Ohio reels under strom's onslaught

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Ohio reeled to cope with snow and ice as much of the state remained under a winter storm warning early Wednesday, with blizzard warnings continuing throughout parts on the northwest corner of the state.

The early morning commute was marked with snow and ice all of Ohio’s 88 counties, according to the Ohio Department of Transportation’s Web site. Severe snow, ice and drifting was reported in 17 counties in north, west central, and western areas of the state.

Some roads were closed in northern Ohio as cars and tractor trailers slid off roads and snow drifts caused driving hazards.

Sheriff’s offices in several west, northwest and north central Ohio counties closed roads to all but emergency workers Wednesday morning, many extending bans that began Tuesday; anyone else caught driving could be arrested.

Schools across the state remained closed Wednesday for a second day, many exceeding the five days allowed for bad weather or other emergencies, meaning they’ll be required to make up the days, possibly on weekends or during a vacation break. Classes also were canceled at several college campuses, including Ohio State, where classes had also been canceled Tuesday afternoon, marking the first time officials canceled classes in four years.