Several Ohio counties remain under snow emergencies Thursday after a large winter storm brought heavy snow showers to the state Sunday afternoon and into Monday afternoon. Though snowfall has been limited since Monday,

Sheriff’s offices and departments collaborate with county emergency managers to determine whether current conditions with the weather and roadways constitute issuing a snow emergency level. Since 1994, county sheriffs have had the authority to issue snow emergencies, using guidelines given by the state.

Under Ohio Law, sheriffs monitor snow conditions and declare snow emergencies when it has been determined that the use of highways and roadways by motorists is a threat to maintaining public peace. Cities, villages and townships can also declare snow emergencies, requiring cars to be moved off streets.

The NWS is warning SoCal residents to be prepared as a life-threatening, destructive, widespread windstorm is expected to sweep through much of Los Angeles and Ventura counties Tuesday through Wednesday.

There are three levels and each one requires different responses from drivers. Parking restrictions can also be put in place.