Crews were still battling local roadways Thursday morning to make the commute easier after Wednesday's winter blast through the Ohio Valley.

Both the West Virginia Department of Highways and the Ohio Department of Transportation were out plowing and salting.

As of 4 p.m., Monroe was at a Level 2 advisory, meaning roads are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Only those who feel it is necessary to drive should be out on the roadways. People should contact their employers to find out if they should report to work.

Noble, Belmont and Guernsey counties were under a Level 1 alert, meaning roads are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Roads are icy, and drivers are advised to take caution.

Weather was a factor in many crashes throughout the Valley, including a fatal crash in Hancock County.

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Article: Weather Was Factor In Fatal Hancock County Crash

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Elsewhere, interstates 70 and 470 were pretty much clear of snow by Thursday morning, though there were still slick spots. In Belmont County, a truck lost control on Interstate 470 and went over a hillside early in the day. The driver was not seriously injured.

That crashed sparked a second crash. According to troopers, another truck ended up on the median of 470.

Back roads were in worse shape to kick off the day, which was likely a main reason why so many schools were closed Thursday. Near downtown St. Clairsville, secondary roads were being plowed but not salted.

As of Thursday morning, electric company personnel said significant progress has been made overnight to restore power to customers in Ohio. Some customers in Belmont, Noble and Tuscarawas counties were still without power, with Tuscarawas being the hardest hit with more than 1,200 customers without service.

According to American Electric Power, the Ohio Valley District -- which includes East Liverpool, Belmont and Steubenville -- were all expected to have power restored by midnight Wednesday.

The Belmont County Emergency Management Agency has set up shelters for those in need.

Anyone in need of assistance should contact the Bellaire 1st United Methodist Church; Bridgeport 1st United Methodist Church; Flushing United Methodist Church; Lansing United Methodist Church; Martins Ferry Grace Presbyterian Church; Shadyside United Methodist Church; Spirit 76 Fire Department; or the St. Clairsville Thoburn United Methodist Church.

For up-to-the-minute local weather coverage, interactive radar, school closings and more, visit our weather section.

You can also check out our Severe Weather Team 9 Blog, and don't forget to show off your weather photos in our community slideshow.