Winter Storm Leads to Surge in Emergency Calls in Columbus

Staff Report

The winter storm that swept through Columbus this week created hazardous road conditions, including icy patches, and led to a significant increase in calls for service to local emergency responders. From 1 p.m. on Jan. 21, through 12 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 23, the Columbus Police Department and other agencies responded to 1,253 total calls, compared to 1,616 during the same period during the previous week.

The breakdown of calls this week included 1,027 police-related incidents and 226 fire/EMS responses. Key incidents included 107 accidents without injuries and nine with injuries, as well as assistance to 184 stranded motorists—a dramatic rise from the seven motorists helped the previous week.

Hazardous road conditions significantly contributed to the uptick in activity. For comparison, during the same period the previous week, there were only 18 accidents without injuries and seven with injuries reported.

Officials urge drivers to remain cautious as some icy patches persist on roadways despite progress by state and city crews to improve travel conditions.

“We are incredibly thankful for the efforts of local first responders and city and state road crews who have worked tirelessly to clear roads and keep our community safe,” a spokesperson for the Columbus Police Department said.

Residents are encouraged to limit travel when possible and to take extra care when navigating icy or slick surfaces.

To keep residents off the road, schools in Columbus and Phenix City will continue to be closed on Friday, Jan. 24, 2025.