Northeast Ohio shoppers scramble for supplies ahead of major winter storm

CUYAHOGA COUNTY, Ohio (WOIO) - Store shelves across Northeast Ohio sat empty Friday as shoppers raced to stock up on food, water and other necessities ahead of a major winter storm threatening the region.

Images of bare grocery store shelves captured the urgency as residents prepared to hunker down and ride out dangerous weather conditions expected to bring extreme cold and potentially paralyzing snow.

“Just in case we’re snowed in or anything. We’ll be prepared and have what we need,” Tina Hill of Cleveland told 19 News.

Chaotic scenes at local stores

The threat of severe weather created chaotic scenes at grocery stores throughout the area, with shoppers describing frenzied conditions.

“Crazy, because people are in there shopping, and everybody has carts, and they’re not saying excuse me or pardon me. They’re just grabbing,” Connie Stewart of Cleveland said.

Another customer observed how weather forecasts can change people’s behavior.

“It makes people act crazy like they never experienced cold and snow before,” David of Oakwood said.

Some shoppers said they spent about $400 on groceries, noting the threat of extreme weather was concerning.

“Scary, scary cause we haven’t seen weather like this in a long time, from when I was growing up as a kid, about 20-something years,” Hill said.

Gas stations and comfort food in demand

Long lines formed at gas stations as people filled their tanks before the storm arrived. Even prepared food items saw high demand.

“Rotisserie chickens. There’s a line for them. People waiting for them to come out of the oven,” one shopper noted.

Officials warn that while residents still have a small window to gather supplies and fill gas tanks, the approaching storm’s wind chills pose serious dangers.

Proper winter clothing, including hats, gloves, and scarves, will be essential, especially if vehicles break down during the severe weather, and you’re stranded waiting for help.