Gov. Mike DeWine issued a proclamation Saturday declaring a state of emergency due to the damaging and dangerous conditions Winter Storm Fern is expected to bring to Ohio.

The proclamation documents DeWine’s directive on Friday that state agencies, including the Ohio Emergency Management Agency, Ohio State Highway Patrol and Ohio Department of Transportation, provide additional resources and support to local communities as needed.

The proclamation also directs the Ohio Department of Administrative Services to suspend normal state purchasing requirements to procure any necessary resources or supplies to protect the health, safety and welfare of Ohioans.

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The National Weather Service on Saturday morning updated its winter storm warning for Northeast Ohio, including the Mahoning Valley.

The warning takes effect 7 p.m. Saturday and continues through 10 a.m. Monday.

Details:

• WHAT: Heavy snow expected. Total snow accumulations by Monday are expected to reach up to 12 inches.

• WHERE: Northeast and North Central Ohio.

• IMPACTS: Travel will be very difficult at times due to slippery road conditions and poor visibility. The hazardous conditions also will impact the Monday morning commute.

•Check here for latest road and travel information from the Ohio Turnpike Commission.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS: Snow will spread into the region tonight and peak in intensity during the day Sunday. The snow will gradually taper off late Sunday night into Monday. Subzero wind chills are expected tonight into Sunday morning, and again Sunday night into Monday morning.

• PRECAUTIONS: If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. The Ohio Department of Transportation and Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission strongly encourage motorists to heed all travel restrictions and delay or cancel any unnecessary travel.

Visit www.ohgo.com for the latest travel, roadway, and traffic conditions.