Improving roads, ongoing caution after Fern in Tuscarawas County
NEW PHILADELPHIA (WJER) (Jan. 27, 2026) – Tuscarawas County officials say driving conditions are improving following Winter Storm Fern, though they continue to urge caution as another stretch of hazardous weather approaches.
Sheriff Orvis Campbell said road conditions had noticeably improved by Monday afternoon, especially on main routes. However, some back roads and side streets were still snowy.
Despite the storm’s intensity, Campbell said the county’s 9-1-1 center handled just eight crash reports from Saturday night through Sunday — a number he called “extremely low” for a storm of this magnitude. An additional three or four crashes were reported on Monday. Authorities also responded to 30 or so disabled vehicles in the county.
Campbell also confirmed one cardiac-related medical incident believed to be connected to snow shoveling. While the individual’s prognosis was not immediately known, Campbell said he believes the person is doing okay.
The sheriff’s office did see an uptick in domestic violence calls during the 36-hour period surrounding the storm. Campbell noted that none of the incidents were considered serious and primarily involved verbal disputes.
More businesses and offices are reopening Tuesday compared to Monday, though area schools remain closed for a second consecutive day.
Looking ahead, Campbell warned that slick conditions could persist throughout the week. Melting snow from sunshine and road salt is expected to refreeze in the extreme cold forecast, potentially creating icy patches along roadways.