MADISONVILLE, Ky. — KYTC District 2 Snow Fighters continue the battle of keeping primary corridors open. The second wave of precipitation will move in around 9 a.m. this morning with heavy snowfall. Motorists are strongly advised to avoid travel if possible.
Crews will need to remain focused on A routes in an effort to keep primary corridors open to traffic for emergency service vehicles.
While accumulations are expected to be significant, due to cold temperatures the snow is expected to be fairly light and fluffy making it easier to plow. However, with 10 to 15 mile per hour winds, it could also create the opportunity for drifts to develop that may further hamper travel.
Highway crews are focused primarily on “A” Snow Priority Routes, which include Interstates, Parkways, U.S. Highways, and some other 4-lane routes. For a complete county-by-county snow and ice priority list please go to https://transportation.ky.gov/Maintenance/Pages/Snow-and-Ice-Maps.aspx.
Citizens should avoid driving and traveling if at all possible.
Tips for driving in snow & ice for winter weather if you must travel:
- Avoid nonessential travel if conditions are dangerous.
- Check the forecast and plan ahead for your trip.
- Make sure your vehicle is sufficiently winterized – check the battery, antifreeze level, heater, defroster, wipers and windshield washer.
- Dress warmly for the weather – in layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing, in anticipation of unexpected emergencies.
- Try to keep your gas tank at least two-thirds full to prevent fuel line freezing and in preparation for possible lengthy delays on the roadway.
- Make sure a friend or relative is aware of your travel route.
- Carry a cell phone.
- Make sure your vehicle has an emergency care kit. It should include jumper cables, flares or reflectors, windshield washer fluid, an ice scraper, blankets, nonperishable food, a first aid kit, and traction material.
- Drive carefully. Allow plenty of time to get to your destination. Do not use cruise control.
- Give a wide berth to snow removal equipment.
- Bridges and exit and entrance ramps can be icy when other areas are not.
- Stopping in snow requires more braking distance than stopping on dry pavement – up to four times more distance. Leave plenty of distance between yourself and the vehicle ahead.
- Be visible. Dull, cloudy days reduce visibility – drive using low-beam headlights.
- Steer into the skid. Stay calm and ease your foot off the gas while carefully steering in the direction you want the front of your vehicle to go.
Forecast from the National Weather Service:
https://www.weather.gov/lmk/weatherstory
Information about KYTC snow & ice removal efforts:
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