Several rounds of snow are expected in central and eastern Kentucky this week as the winter season continues. That can mean slicker roads and worse conditions for driving.
Monday saw around one-to-two inches of snow around the Mountain Parkway corridor in eastern Kentucky. Donald Compton is the public works manager for Prestonsville.
“We hope it's a mild winter, but if it is worse weather, we've got some salt stockpiled, and the trucks are ready to go.”
The National Weather Service reports warmer temperatures through Wednesday, with temperatures in the high 40s and low 50s in central and eastern Kentucky. There’s a chance for more snow starting Wednesday evening and continuing through Friday.
Nee Jackson, the Emergency Management Director in Pike County, says to communicate with your friends or neighbors before a long drive.
“Try to give them an idea of about what time that they're to be expected at their destination,” he said. “And I highly recommend—and I don't like to give names of different products—but something similar to a Life360 type thing, where you can track family members, and if something happens and they don't arrive at a certain time, you can see if they're moving or not moving, and how long they've been in a certain spot.”
Emily Fay is with Lexington Emergency Management. She says to stay alert on the roads during those conditions.
“Slow down. Take your time. Leave extra space between you and other drivers, and keep be alert and cautious when you're moving,” Fay said.
Ice can especially impact structures like bridges or overpasses that are surrounded by cold air. Both the National Weather Service and Lexington Emergency Management recommend caution while driving through those structures.
It’s also recommended to an emergency kit stocked with blankets, warm clothes, food, water, charging devices, booster cables, an ice scraper and a shovel. If an accident or wreck happens, call 911.
If staying at home, make sure to stay stocked on medication and keep space heaters or kerosene generators well ventilated and away from flammable objects.
