Prepare for Winter Storm Fern!

Ohio Department of Health Director Bruce Vanderhoff, MD, MBA, cautioned Ohioans on Friday to prepare for the winter storm expected to hit most of central and southern Ohio this weekend.

"It's critically important for all of us to keep safety top of mind this weekend," said Dr. Vanderhoff. "Avoid unnecessary travel, prepare for rapidly changing conditions, including sub-zero wind chills, and remember to check in on elderly loved ones, friends, and neighbors to make sure their needs are met."

Stay indoors, Dr. Vanderhoff added, and no matter your age, avoid overexertion during and after the storm. "Avoid overexertion, especially trying to clear snow and ice," he said. "Besides slipping and falling, we can put a lot of strain our bodies that could cause heart attacks and other health events."

Most of central and southern Ohio is under a winter storm warning as Winter Storm Fern threatens to bring disruptive snow and ice across much of the country. The warning begins at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 24, and is expected to remain in effect through Monday, according to the National Weather Service in Wilmington. The forecast calls for a potential accumulation of 8 to 12 inches.

The weather service also issued a separate cold weather advisory that begins at 6 p.m. Jan. 23 until noon Jan. 24. Expect "very cold" wind chills as low as -12 degrees.

Remember to dress in layers, including a hat, face mask, and gloves if you must go outside. Find more winter safety tips, see this feature story on our homepage, "Bundle Up This Winter! "