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Columbus Winter 2024-2025: How It Compares to History

Snow-covered streets in Columbus during Winter 2024-2025
Columbus Winter 2024-2025: A look at snowfall, temperatures, and severity rankings.

Columbus Winter 2024-2025: How It Compares to History

Spring is officially here! The vernal equinox has passed, marking the start of a new season in the Northern Hemisphereโ€”including right here in Columbus.

Even though winter is technically behind us, the chill in the air says otherwise, with temperatures dipping into the 20s this week. But how does this past winter stack up against Columbus’ historical winters? Let’s break it down using data from the Midwest Regional Climate Center.

How Harsh Was Columbus’ Winter This Year?

While you may still be shivering from recent cold snaps, Columbusโ€™ 2024-2025 winter was classified as only “moderate” in severity, according to the Accumulated Winter Season Severity Index (AWSSI).



What Is AWSSI?

AWSSI is a scoring system used by climate experts to rank winter severity based on key factors like:

  • Snowfall accumulation
  • Snow depth
  • High and low temperatures

A higher AWSSI score means a harsher winter, while a lower score indicates milder conditions. This year, Columbus recorded an AWSSI score of 319, placing it 52nd out of 74 recorded wintersโ€”meaning it ranks among the 25 least severe winters in local history.

Columbus’ Most Intense Winters on Record

For comparison, here are the harshest winters in Columbus based on AWSSI scores:

โ„๏ธ 1977-1978
โ„๏ธ 1976-1977
โ„๏ธ 1978-1979
โ„๏ธ 1962-1963
โ„๏ธ 1984-1985

And here are Columbus’ mildest winters, ranked from least to most severe:

๐ŸŒธ 2011-2012
๐ŸŒธ 1997-1998
๐ŸŒธ 2023-2024
๐ŸŒธ 2019-2020
๐ŸŒธ 2001-2002

When Does Winter Actually End?

While the calendar says winter ends in March, AWSSI defines the season differently. According to this system, winter starts when:

  • The first measurable snowfall (โ‰ฅ 0.1 inch) occurs
  • The first high temperature stays at or below 32ยฐF
  • If neither happens early, winter officially starts on December 1

Winter ends when:

  • The last measurable snowfall occurs
  • The last day with at least 1 inch of snow on the ground
  • The last day where the high temperature is 32ยฐF or colder
  • If none of these conditions continue, winter ends on February 28/29

Could More Snow Be Coming?

Even though spring is here, winter may not be done with Columbus just yet! In fact, history shows that snowfall in Columbus has happened as late as May 9, 1923, when 0.3 inches of snow fell. So, while the flowers may be blooming, keep that winter coat handyโ€”just in case.

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Former Ohio State Star Jack Sawyer Lands Ideal NFL Destination in Latest Mock Draft, Keeping Him Close to Home

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Jack Sawyer in action during his final season at Ohio State, preparing for the 2025 NFL Draft.
Jack Sawyerโ€™s performance at Ohio State has earned him a spot in the 2025 NFL Draft, with projections placing him close to home in Cincinnati.

Former Ohio State Star Jack Sawyer Lands Ideal NFL Destination in Latest Mock Draft, Keeping Him Close to Home

The Ohio State Buckeyesโ€™ 2024 football team boasted an elite roster, securing the programโ€™s first National Championship in a decade. With a wealth of talent returning for 2024, expectations were high in Columbus. As the season concludes, many Buckeyes are now eyeing the 2025 NFL Draft, where Ohio State could challenge the 2022 Georgia Bulldogsโ€™ record of 15 draft picks.

One standout player whoโ€™s generating significant buzz for the 2025 NFL Draft is Jack Sawyer, a former five-star recruit and Ohio State fan favorite. Heโ€™s set to be selected in the upcoming draft, with a bright future ahead in the NFL.

Jack Sawyerโ€™s Projected NFL Draft Destination: Cincinnati Bengals a Strong Fit

In the latest 2025 NFL Mock Draft, Jack Sawyer is expected to be picked up in the second round by the Cincinnati Bengals, a destination that fits his skill set. For Ohio State fans, Sawyerโ€™s potential move to Cincinnati would be exciting, as it would keep him close to home and allow fans to watch his progress on the field.

Sawyerโ€™s career at Ohio State was marked by his impressive pass-rushing ability, and Cincinnati could provide the perfect opportunity for him to thrive. With former Buckeye Sam Hubbard retiring, the Bengals have a clear need for another edge rusher to help strengthen their defensive line.

Despite not testing at the NFL Scouting Combine, Sawyerโ€™s solid pass-rushing profile, coupled with his five-star recruit status and experience in big games, makes him a strong candidate for a Day 2 selection. His ability to fit the Bengalsโ€™ defensive scheme makes this landing spot even more likely.

Jack Sawyerโ€™s Impact at Ohio State: A Playmaker with Leadership

Throughout his time at Ohio State, Jack Sawyer demonstrated his ability to make game-changing plays. One of his most notable moments came during the Cotton Bowl when he scooped up a fumble and ran it over 70 yards for a touchdown to seal the Buckeyes’ victory over Texas.

In 2024, Sawyer finished with 9 sacks, 59 tackles, and 1 interception. Known for his leadership on and off the field, Sawyer is not only a talented player but also a high-character teammate. Many may not know that Sawyer was also a Division I basketball recruit in high school, showcasing his diverse athletic abilities.

Where Will Jack Sawyer Go in the 2025 NFL Draft?

Jack Sawyer is expected to be drafted in the second or third round of the 2025 NFL Draft, with the Cincinnati Bengals being a strong contender for his services. However, the Cleveland Browns could also be in the mix, as theyโ€™re looking to add more depth behind their star pass rusher, Myles Garrett.

Wherever Sawyer lands, one thing is certain: Buckeye fans will continue to support him as he takes the next step in his football career.

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Whitehall Moves to Protect Immigrant Rights and Gender-Affirming Care

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Whitehall City Council discusses new resolutions to protect immigrant rights and expand access to gender-affirming care.
Whitehall is taking action to protect immigrant rights and ensure access to gender-affirming care, making the city a safer and more inclusive place for all residents.

Whitehall Council Moves to Protect Immigrant Rights and Gender-Affirming Care

Whitehall is taking significant steps to uphold the rights of transgender and nonbinary individuals by ensuring they can use restrooms in city buildings that align with their gender identity. Additionally, the city is working to prevent local resources from being used in federal mass deportations while strengthening protections for immigrants and individuals seeking gender-affirming health care.

During a recent City Council meeting, Council Member Amy Harcar introduced two resolutions aimed at safeguarding immigrant rights and designating Whitehall as a safe haven for gender-affirming medical care.

Harcar explained that her initiative was inspired by similar efforts in other communities. Her goal is to create an environment where immigrants and individuals seeking gender-affirming care feel safe and respected in Whitehall. To ensure these measures effectively address community needs, Harcar will collaborate with another council member and local residents to gather feedback. Whitehall residents interested in contributing can reach out via email at [email protected].

Key Aspects of the Proposed Resolutions

  1. Immigrant Rights Protection
    • Whitehall will not use local resources to enforce federal immigration laws or aid in mass deportations.
    • Immigrants and refugees, regardless of status, will be treated with dignity and fairness.
    • The city will provide essential servicesโ€”such as food, healthcare, education, and housingโ€”to all residents, irrespective of immigration status.
    • Language access services will be available to help immigrant communities engage in civic life.
  2. Support for Gender-Affirming Healthcare
    • Whitehall will ban conversion therapy within city limits.
    • Transgender and nonbinary individuals will have the right to use restrooms that align with their gender expression in city buildings.
    • The city will protect legal access to gender-affirming healthcare.
    • No person or organization will face criminal prosecution or penalties for providing or receiving gender-affirming care.

While there is no set timeline for when these resolutions will go before the full City Council for a vote, Whitehall is actively working to shape policies that foster inclusivity, safety, and equal rights for all.

Stay updated on Whitehallโ€™s progress and share your thoughts by reaching out to [email protected].

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Former Humane Agent Sentenced to Over 15 Years for Animal Cruelty and Fraudulent Pet Rehabilitation Scheme

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Humane agent Steffen Baldwin sentenced to prison for animal cruelty and fraudulent dog rehabilitation scheme.
Former Union County Humane Society executive director Steffen Baldwin sentenced for animal cruelty and fraud involving euthanized dogs.

Former Humane Agent Sentenced to Over 15 Years for Animal Cruelty and Fraudulent Pet Rehabilitation Scheme

Steffen Baldwin, the former executive director of the Union County Humane Society, has been sentenced to 15ยฝ years in prison after being convicted of a disturbing scheme that exploited pet owners and rescue groups. Baldwin, 44, promised to rehabilitate dogs or find them new homes for a fee, but instead kept the payments for personal gain and euthanized the animals without permission.

Baldwin was found guilty of 32 charges, including animal cruelty, theft, bribery, and other serious offenses, following a January 2024 trial. In addition to his lengthy prison sentence, Baldwin is permanently banned from owning or caring for any animals.

Presenting himself as a compassionate dog lover with a 99% success rate in rehabilitating challenging dogs, Baldwin lured pet owners and rescue groups into trusting him. However, he never fulfilled his promises. Instead, he lied about the status of the animals in his care, often claiming they were doing well, when in reality, he had them euthanized. Many of these dogs were perfectly healthy, but Baldwin misled their owners for months, leaving them in the dark.

One heartbreaking case involved Remi, a 3-year-old pit bull. The Kargakos family from No Fear Rescue entrusted Baldwin with Remi, who had been labeled a “dangerous dog” after two bite incidents. Baldwin assured them that he could remove this designation for $1,000. However, after receiving the payment and taking Remi into his custody, Baldwin made no effort to follow through on his promise and, instead, euthanized the dog in December 2016, falsely claiming Remi had been severely injured in a dog fight.

Baldwin also deceived the Blue Chip Rescue group regarding a dog named Gucci, telling them that Gucci was happily adopted when, in fact, the dog had been euthanized months earlier.

Arrested in August 2020, Baldwin faced 42 felony charges related to the deaths of at least 18 dogs. He will serve time in prison and remain under post-release control (parole) for up to five years upon his release.

This case serves as a grim reminder of the importance of trusting responsible, transparent animal care professionals and the devastating consequences of exploitation in the pet care industry.

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Homeless Families and Their Pets Displaced After Columbus Hotel Closes Due to Safety Concerns

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Homeless families and pets displaced after the closure of Loyalty Inn in Columbus due to safety concerns.
Displaced homeless families and their pets are left without shelter after the Loyalty Inn in Columbus is shut down for safety reasons.

Homeless Families and Their Pets Displaced After Columbus Hotel Closes Due to Safety Concerns

Columbus, OH – Over the weekend, a group of homeless individuals and their pets were left without shelter after the Loyalty Inn, located at 5910 Scarborough Blvd. on Columbus’ Southeast Side, was shut down. This closure follows escalating safety and crime issues at the hotel, which had been used to house 30 residents who could not stay in regular shelters due to the presence of their pets.

The Community Shelter Board had been funding the hotel since mid-December, providing a temporary housing solution for residents coming from homeless camps that the city had ordered to vacate. However, the Loyalty Innโ€™s closure on Saturday resulted from an agreement between the hotel’s owner and the City Attorneyโ€™s Office Property Action Team, which has been working to address the hotelโ€™s ongoing problems.

In 2021, the Franklin County Environmental Court had declared the Loyalty Inn a public nuisance and required the propertyโ€™s owner to make significant improvements. The current owners have not complied with the court’s orders, and recent inspections found multiple violations, including 17 issues identified by the State Fire Marshal. Over the past year, Columbus police responded to the hotel more than 100 times, further highlighting the buildingโ€™s safety concerns.

City Attorney Zach Klein expressed his concerns about the challenges the situation presents, stating that had something tragic occurred, his office would have faced serious scrutiny for not acting sooner. Despite offering the hotel owner additional time to relocate residents, the decision was made to close the hotel early.

The shelter program was initially set to last until the end of March, with the Community Shelter Board paying between $43 and $49 per night for the rooms. Following the closure, alternative shelter options were offered, including traditional shelters where pets would be housed at the Franklin County Animal Shelter. However, all the impacted residents declined these options, with some choosing to return to the streets or find other accommodations with friends or family.

This situation underscores the critical shortage of affordable housing in the area. As Community Shelter Board spokesperson Niรฉl Jurist explained, if there were more affordable housing options available, hotels and motels would not need to serve as emergency shelters for the homeless and their pets.

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Two Texas Men Arrested in Columbus for Human Trafficking Operation Involving Juvenile Victim

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Two Texas men arrested in Columbus for human trafficking operation, involving rescue of juvenile victim.
Men arrested in Columbus for trafficking operation, rescuing four victims, including a juvenile.

Two Texas Men Arrested in Columbus for Human Trafficking Operation Involving Juvenile Victim

Columbus, OHTwo men from Texas have been arrested in Columbus, Ohio, following a joint human trafficking operation that rescued four victims, including a juvenile. The suspects, aged 26 and 27, were apprehended on March 13 after a coordinated effort by multiple law enforcement agencies in central Ohio. Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost confirmed the arrests on Monday, shedding light on the successful operation.

The suspects, one from Houston and the other from Cypress, Texas, were taken into custody by a team from the Columbus SWAT, Sharon Township Police Department, and other law enforcement units. The 26-year-old suspect was arrested after barricading himself inside a home on West Kanawha Avenue in Sharon Township. The operation was carried out by the Central Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force, along with the Columbus Police SWAT team and the Police And Community Together (PACT) Unit, which succeeded the disbanded Vice Unit.

The investigation began when the FBIโ€™s Houston office and the Texas Department of Public Safety contacted Ohio authorities on March 13, alerting them to a juvenile trafficking victim believed to be in Columbus. Following this tip, law enforcement launched an investigation that led them to the two suspects and the discovery of three additional victims. All four victims were identified as being from Texas.

The victims are currently receiving care and support from the Central Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force. One victim was found with the Cypress suspect, while two others were located with the Houston suspect after he barricaded himself. A fourth victim was discovered at a separate location.

Both men face serious charges, including human trafficking and compelling prostitution of a minor. They are currently awaiting extradition back to Texas for further legal proceedings. This successful operation underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable individuals.

Stay informed about human trafficking awareness.

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Fatal Crash in Minerva Park, Columbus: One Dead and Two Injured

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Fatal crash in Minerva Park, Columbus, resulting in one death and injuries, March 2025.
One person died in a fatal crash in Columbus’ Minerva Park neighborhood on March 16, 2025, marking the third deadly crash in less than 24 hours.

Fatal Crash in Minerva Park, Columbus: One Dead and Two Injured

A tragic crash occurred Sunday night in Columbus’ Minerva Park neighborhood, resulting in the death of one person and leaving another injured.

At approximately 10:18 p.m., 30-year-old Melany Devore, from Grove City, was driving southbound on Cleveland Avenue near the intersection of Minerva Avenue in a Hyundai Elantra. The vehicle veered into the northbound lanes, leading to a head-on collision with a Honda Odyssey.

Both drivers were rushed to OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital. While the driver of the Honda sustained only minor injuries, Devore tragically succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced dead at the hospital at 11:05 p.m.

The Columbus Police Accident Investigation Unit is actively investigating the cause of the crash.

Third Fatality in Less Than 24 Hours in Columbus

This incident marks the third fatal crash in Columbus in less than 24 hours. Earlier Sunday afternoon, a 7-year-old boy tragically lost his life after falling out of an SUV and being run over by the vehicle in the Milo-Grogan neighborhood.

In another deadly crash early Monday, a Jeep Cherokee flipped over a guardrail on Interstate 70 near the I-270 interchange, colliding head-on with a semi truck. One person was killed in that crash as well.

All three crashes are still under investigation by local authorities.

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Ohio’s Highways Rank Among the Top 10 in the U.S. for Cost-Effectiveness and Condition

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Ohio's highways rank 10th in the U.S. for cost-effectiveness and condition in 2022, showing improvement in key metrics like rural road quality and safety.
Ohio’s highways now rank 10th in the nation for cost-effectiveness and road condition, marking significant progress in safety and infrastructure.

Ohio’s Highways Rank Among the Top 10 in the U.S. for Cost-Effectiveness and Condition

According to the latest 28th Annual Highway Report from The Reason Foundation, Ohio’s highways are now ranked 10th in the nation for cost-effectiveness and overall condition, marking a significant improvement from last year’s position at 17th. This annual report evaluates state highway systems based on multiple factors, including cost-effectiveness, condition, and safety, using data from 2022.

Ohio’s Strong Performance

Ohio’s highway system shines in several key areas, earning top-ten rankings for the following:

  • Rural Arterial Pavement Condition: With just 0.36% of these two to four-lane highways in poor condition, Ohio ranks 9th nationwide in maintaining smooth roads that connect cities and regions.
  • Rural Fatality Rate: Ohio boasts the 9th-lowest rural fatality rate, with just 0.86 deaths per 100 million rural vehicle miles traveled, indicating the state’s commitment to road safety.
  • Capital and Bridge Disbursement Rate: Ohio excels in efficiently managing bridge and highway construction costs, ranking 6th with a rate of 0.55โ€”lower than expected, meaning the state effectively stretches its budget.

Areas for Improvement

However, Ohio’s highways do face challenges in a few areas, particularly in urban regions:

  • Urban Interstate Pavement Condition: Ranked 32nd, with 4.15% of these critical roads in poor condition, Ohioโ€™s urban interstates need improvement.
  • Urban Arterial Pavement Condition: Ohio’s urban arterial highways, which serve as major connectors in urban areas, are ranked 36th, with nearly 13% of these roads in poor shape.
  • Fatality Rate on Other Roadways: Ohio’s fatality rate on minor roads, such as collectors and local routes, is ranked 31st, with 1.56 deaths per 100 million vehicle miles, indicating room for improvement in these areas.

How Ohio Compares to Other States

When compared to nearby states, Ohio’s highway system performs better than those in Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania. Among states with similar population sizes, Ohio outperforms Georgia but falls slightly behind Illinois in highway performance.

With continued improvements and investments, Ohio is on track to maintain its position as one of the nation’s leaders in cost-effective and well-maintained highways.

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Ohio Shoppers Have One Day Left to Score Big Deals at Big Lots Before Store Closures

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Big Lots store closing sale in Ohio with up to 90% off on select items before store closures.
Shop the final liquidation sale at Big Lots in Ohio before stores close for good. Don’t miss up to 90% off select items!

Ohio Shoppers Have One Day Left to Score Big Deals at Big Lots Before Store Closures

Ohio shoppers have just one day left to take advantage of Big Lots’ final liquidation sale. The popular discount retailer is rapidly closing hundreds ofstores nationwide, including eight locations in Ohio, as part of a major store shutdown.

Founded in 1967 as Consolidated Stores and headquartered in Columbus, Big Lots is in its last weekend of sales, offering deep discounts on all remaining inventory. As the company struggles under $3.1 billion in debt following its bankruptcy filing in September, they have been forced to close locations across the country, with Ohio seeing eight stores permanently shut their doors.

The liquidation sales, with discounts up to 90% off on select items, are drawing in shoppers eager to grab incredible deals before the doors close for good. With the final weekend quickly approaching, customers in Ohio are racing to take advantage of steep savings on furniture, home goods, and more before Big Lots exits the retail scene in their home state.

Ohio Stores Closing

  • 11372 Princeton Pike, Cincinnati
  • 9690 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati
  • 359 Miamisburg Centerville Rd., Dayton
  • 1520 N Clinton St., Defiance
  • 1170 Indiana Ave., Saint Marys
  • 410 E Perkins Ave., Sandusky
  • 4925 Jackman Rd., Ste 15, Toledo
  • 7779 Tylersville Rd., West Chester

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Noordin Haji: The Visionary Intelligence Leader Who Transformed Kenya’s Security

Noordin Haji: Kenyaโ€™s National Intelligence Director and visionary leader dedicated to restoring peace and security in the country.
Noordin Haji: The Visionary Intelligence Leader Who Transformed Kenya’s Security Landscape

Noordin Haji: The Visionary Intelligence Leader Who Transformed Kenya’s Security

Kenyaโ€™s National Intelligence Director, Noordin Haji, is a man whose leadership has transformed the nationโ€™s security landscape. Born in Ijara, a remarkable sub-county in Kenyaโ€™s southern region, he carries a rich legacy as the son of Yussuf Haji, the first Somali to serve as a Provincial Commissioner in Kenyaโ€™s history. Noordinโ€™s journey is one of dedication, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to peace and stability.

Before his appointment as the National Intelligence Director, Noordin made history as the first Somali to hold the position of Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in Kenya. In this role, he earned international recognition for his relentless pursuit of justice, tackling corruption, and ensuring the rule of law prevailed. His reputation as a formidable legal mind and strategist set the stage for his current position, where he continues to shape Kenyaโ€™s security framework.

Under his leadership, Kenya has seen a significant reduction in terror threats and criminal activities. His intelligence-driven approach has restored stability, particularly in border regions like Ijara, which had long suffered from insecurity. Nurdinโ€™s work has been globally recognized, with international security agencies commending his methods in counterterrorism and intelligence gathering.

Dalmar TV spoke to key figures in Ijara who expressed their admiration for Noordin Hajiโ€™s contributions. Bashir Yarrow Kosar and Abdirahman Ahmed Salad stated:

โ€œNoordin Haji brought peace to Ijara. After several years of terror, he brought life back to our people. Today, Ijara, which borders Somalia, is finally safe. We believe this is all because of his dedication and hard work.โ€

Former Member of Parliament for Ijara, Sofia Abdi, also shared her thoughts on Noordinโ€™s leadership:

โ€œNoordin Haji is a great leader who loves peace and has the ability to lead Kenya. I have known him since his youth, and I can confidently say that he has a long-term vision for this country. He carries Kenya in his heart, and he has the potential to make Kenya great again.โ€

For the people of Ijara and Kenya as a whole, Nurdin Hajji is more than just an intelligence chiefโ€”he is a hero. His ability to restore peace, enforce justice, and safeguard national security has left an indelible mark on the nation. His achievements not only bring pride to the people of Ijara but also serve as an inspiration for future generations.

As Kenya continues to navigate global security challenges, the leadership of Noordin Haji stands as a pillar of hope, proving that vision, experience, and dedication can truly transform a nation.

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