Staff photo / Ed Runyan Dimas Molina was using a large snow blower in the driveway of this house on Fifth Avenue on Youngstown’s North Side on Monday morning. He was one of many people digging out from Sunday’s big snowstorm.

Staff report

The Mahoning Valley faced heavy snowfall and snow covered roads Sunday and Monday, and residents are now bracing for very cold temperatures that are expected to be well below zero when factoring in the wind chill.

Just as the heavy snow resulted in many closings and cancellations, the severe cold air is causing many closings and local school districts have canceled classes for the second day in a row.

The National Weather Service in Cleveland has issued an extreme cold warning in effect until 11 a.m. today as dangerously cold wind chills of -20 to -27 are expected.

Gov. Mike DeWine encourages Ohioans to take precautions because of the cold weather.

According to the Ohio Emergency Management Agency, Ohio is experiencing a deep Arctic air mass that will keep temperatures well below normal throughout the week.

The coldest wind chill factor was expected overnight and into today, with wind chill values of 20 to 25 degrees below zero. Below normal temperatures are expected to continue through the first week of February.

“Although the statewide threat for heavy falling snow has passed, the extreme cold is only just beginning and is expected to last for some time. I encourage everyone to take caution for their own health and safety and for the health and safety of family, friends and neighbors,” DeWine said.

With extremely cold temperatures forecasted for the week, the Ohio State Highway Patrol is urging drivers to stay home if possible. If you must travel, your preparation should begin with a thorough check of your vehicle:

• Make sure that your tires have a good amount of air and tread, your battery is fully charged and your windshield washer reservoir is full.

• Drivers should stock their vehicles with a winter travel kit that includes an ice scraper, shovel, jumper cables, flashlight, blankets, cellphone charger, first aid kit, water and food. Warming items will be especially important for the upcoming week.

• When driving on snow, ice, or slush-covered roads, drivers should avoid sharp, abrupt movements and should not slam on the brakes. Drivers also should increase their following distance, giving themselves more time to come to a stop on surfaces with low traction.

• If you start losing control or skidding, resist the urge to slam on the brakes. Instead, look and steer in the direction you want to go while easing off the pedals.

While the major winter storm let up on Monday, snow totals varied from 6 to 8 inches in some locations in Trumbull County and up to a foot in some areas of Mahoning County, including in Youngstown, Campbell and Boardman. The Youngstown-Warren Regional Airport in Vienna, which is the official keeper of weather statistics, reported more than 9 inches of snow on Sunday.

Closings reported for the area today in addition to schools also include the Girard Multi-Generational Center, SCOPE Senior Centers, the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library, the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County and Trumbull Mobile Meals. The Kinsman Free Public Library will have a delayed opening and will be open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Libraries in Girard, Newton Falls and Hubbard will be open.

In addition, parking bans are in effect for many communities. Warming stations have also been set up at different locations in both counties.

Trash collection companies will be collecting one day later than their normal pickup times, but residents are asked to place trash at curbside.

The NWS states that frostbite and hypothermia will occur if unprotected skin is exposed to these temperatures. The NWS is advising people to dress in layers including a hat, ski masks and gloves if you have to be outside.

Make sure portable heaters are used correctly. An extended period of frigid temperatures could cause ruptured water pipes. To prevent water pipes from freezing, wrap them in a towel or allow them to drip slowly.

Keep pets indoors as much as possible. Make sure outdoor animals have a warm, dry shelter, food and unfrozen water.

Make frequent checks on older family, friends and neighbors.

Today, there is a 70% chance of snow with accumulation of an inch possible. The temperature is expected to be near 18 degrees with windchills as low as -19.

This evening, temperatures are expected to be around 3 with windchills as low as -12.

Temperatures for the rest of the week are expected to be in the teens with lows near zero or lower.

The next day that temperatures will be in the 20s is Sunday.