COLUMBUS, Ohio - Governor Mike DeWine is scheduled to hold a news conference this afternoon at the Ohio Emergency Operations Center to discuss the state’s response to a significant winter storm. State leaders and safety officials will share information on travel safety and utility preparations before the snow begins arriving on Saturday.

Weather forecasts show a major storm moving through the region beginning Saturday evening and lasting into Monday. Heavy snow and dangerously cold wind chills are expected for most of the state. Forecasters say the southern and eastern parts of Ohio could see between 8 and 12 inches of snow, while northern and western areas may receive 3 to 6 inches.

During Friday’s news event, the governor will be joined by the directors of the Ohio Emergency Management Agency and the Ohio Department of Transportation. Leaders from the Ohio State Highway Patrol and local sheriff's offices are also expected to provide updates on road safety.

The purpose of the meeting is to ensure that state agencies are coordinated and that the public has the information they need to stay safe. Officials plan to emphasize the importance of staying home once the storm begins and keeping an emergency kit in every vehicle.

The Ohio Department of Transportation has already begun preparing for the wintry weekend. Crews are pre-treating roads and highways with de-icing materials. However, salt becomes less effective at melting ice when temperatures drop below 20 degrees.

ODOT advises that snowplow drivers will be working long hours through the weekend. Drivers are reminded to give plows at least 200 feet of space to work. If you must travel, checking the OHGO app for real-time traffic and road conditions is recommended.

Electric companies like AEP Ohio and FirstEnergy are also getting ready. Their meteorologists are tracking the storm to see where power outages are most likely to occur. Heavy snow and ice can cause tree branches to fall on power lines, cutting electricity.

Utility companies suggest that customers charge their phones and laptops now. They also remind everyone to stay at least 30 feet away from any downed power lines, as they can still carry a deadly electric current.

For home heating, the Ohio State Fire Marshal recommends checking smoke and carbon monoxide detectors today. If you use a space heater, keep it on a flat surface and away from curtains, bedding, or furniture. Never use a kitchen stove or oven to heat your home, as this creates a fire hazard and a risk of gas poisoning.

In the Mahoning Valley, a Winter Storm Warning is already in effect for the weekend. Mahoning and Trumbull counties are currently forecast to receive 7 to 10 inches of snow. To the south, Columbiana County could see heavier totals ranging from 10 to 14 inches.

The heaviest snow is expected to fall on Sunday. This could make the Monday morning commute very difficult. Wind chills are also expected to drop below zero Saturday night and Sunday night, making outdoor activities dangerous.

The Ohio Emergency Management Agency is working with local counties to identify warming centers if they are needed.

Residents are encouraged to check on elderly neighbors and make sure pets have adequate shelter before the temperatures drop.

The governor’s update on Friday is intended to give Ohioans one last look at the state's plan before the weather worsens.