With a winter storm expected to leave 6 to 11 inches of snow by early today in Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana counties, numerous area communities have issued parking bans.

The National Weather Service in Cleveland issued a winter storm warning that began 7 p.m. Sunday and was scheduled to end 10 a.m. today. Snow, expected to be wet and heavy, is forecast, with total snow accumulations of 6 to 11 inches by this morning.

Additional lake effect snow is forecast to continue into tonight.

The NWS website states the snow could cause hazardous conditions, make traveling difficult and cause power outages.

Andrew R. Frost, Mahoning County Emergency Management Agency director, said communities are canceling events to protect motorists from traveling on icy and slick roads as up to a foot of snow is projected through early today.

Because today is a legal holiday, most schools and public offices are closed.

Frost said the Mahoning and Trumbull County EMAs are asking people to be prepared for heavy wet snow with possible power outages.

Be prepared by:

l Making sure to check on family, friends and neighbors, especially those who should not be outdoors during this severe weather;

l Have special provisions for outdoor pets. Make sure they have proper shelter and warmth;

l For those who should not be outside shoveling heavy wet snow, make early arrangements to have someone clear your walkways and driveway;

l Make sure to charge your electronic devices in case of power outages;

l Have three to four days supply of food and essential needs;

∫ Make sure you have gas in your main vehicle and the proper snow brush easily available;

∫ Prepare snow blowers and make snow shovels available ahead of the storm;

∫ Make sure you have a weeks’ worth of medications on hand;

∫ Stay informed by watching local news and weather stations;

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