MADISONVILLE, Ky. — The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet advises motorists traveling throughout the western counties in the District 2 region to use caution while driving. Freezing rain is forming icy spots on bridges and overpasses creating hazardous driving conditions. Multiple crashes and highway blockages are being are being addressed in District 1, the Paducah area.
Motorists are encouraged to keep in mind the possibility of falling trees and/or branches blocking the highway due to the accumulation of ice, projections estimate between 1/4 – 1/2 inch.
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet crews have pretreated roadways. However, once the ice starts to accumulate, the ability to improve driving conditions will be limited. Extreme low temperatures into and through the weekend will severely limit the effectiveness of salt and other ice-fighting chemicals.
Priority A routes include critical state routes and those most heavily traveled, such as interstates and main roads between counties or to hospitals, which receive the highest priority for snow-clearing efforts. Priority B and C routes include other important but lesser-traveled state routes.
https://www.weather.gov/lmk/weatherstory
Information about KYTC snow & ice removal efforts:
You are an important part! Safe travel begins with YOU!
Be prepared:
The following measures will help keep motorists safe and prepared:
- Put yourself in emergency mode
- Pay attention to weather advisories. Weather will impact your commute on some level
- Travel only as necessary during major snow events. It’s better to be stuck at home than to be stuck on the road
- Maintain a safe distance from snowplows and other heavy highway equipment
- Do not pass snowplows on the shoulder
- Allow time for a slower commute
- Winterize vehicles
- Supply vehicles with blankets, flashlight and an emergency supply kit
- Know before you go. Visit ky.gov and download the free Waze app to check traffic conditions before you travel
- Eliminate distractions (e.g. operating phone and eating) while driving
- Cooperate with the expectations of the Quick Clearance law, which requires drivers to move vehicles to the shoulder in the event of a non-injury crash