Oxford under level 2 snow emergency, Miami cancels classes

Oxford Police Department (OPD) announced the City of Oxford is under a Level 2 Snow emergency.

"Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow," the alert read. "Only those who feel it is necessary to drive should be out on the roadways. Citizens should contact employers to determine if they should report to work."

Miami University announced through its Emergency Text Messaging System Oxford and Regional campuses will be closed at 6 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 3 until 6 p.m. Friday, Feb 4.

Classes in person and online have been cancelled.

OPD asked students and residents parked on snow routes to move their cars off the road in preparation for a snow storm predicted for Feb. 3.

The storm is predicted to have total snow and sleet accumulations of 1 to 3 inches and ice accumulations of two tenths to one quarter of an inch.

The winter storm warning is currently set to expire at 7 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 4.

“If more than 3” of snow/ice are on the ground or a snow emergency is declared,” the OPD post read, “we will start removing cars from snow routes — that means we will tow cars and it will cost money to get the cars back.”

Photo by Oxford Police Department | The Miami Student
Cars found on the emergency snow route will be towed if snow accumulates to 3 inches.

The post goes on to say students can move their cars to West Millett without a parking pass until the snow emergency ends.

In a City Council meeting on Feb. 2, Police Chief John Jones urged residents to sign up for Nixle, OPD’s emergency email and text alert system.

The post also warns of fallen trees and power lines due to the ice accumulation.

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“If you see downed power lines, call 911 immediately and STAY FAR AWAY from the lines,” the OPD post read.

OPD also warned residents to prepare for a power outage with flashlights, dripping pipes and making backup plans in case of heat loss in the residence. Residents should keep pets and animals inside or provide a covered shelter away from wind with straw beds. Residents should ensure the animals’ water doesn’t freeze.

@abby_bammerlin

bammeraj@miamioh.edu