More than 1,000 snowplows clearing Ohio roads

CLEVELAND (AP) — Transportation officials in Ohio say more than 1,000 state snowplows and other snow-clearing vehicles have been on northern Ohio roads as high winds cause blowing snow and drifting.

The fierce winter storm led to closings today at school districts in the region that are accustomed to snow and usually don’t cancel classes. The Akron Zoo also closed today due to the weather.

The corridor is in the path of a storm that’s hammering East Coast cities such as Philadelphia and New York. A winter storm warning in effect until 10 p.m. tonight says seven northeast Ohio counties could get up to 15 inches of snow. Forecasters say wind gusts up to 30 mph are making things difficult for motorists.

Snowfall elsewhere in Ohio was lighter with some areas staying dry.