Bitter cold and high winds on the way
PADUCAH, Ky. (January 12, 2024) – The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) is encouraging area motorists to stay weather-aware and practice safe driving as the region braces for high winds and extreme cold starting this weekend and continuing through next week.
A High Wind Warning has been issued through Noon, Saturday. Wind gusts in the 30 to 55 mph range are possible. The National Weather Service (NWS) indicates areas of heavy rain and thunderstorms will transition to sleet/snow this afternoon and evening.
A blast of arctic air will envelop the region Saturday night to provide a week or more of below freezing temperatures. Wind chills below zero and as low as -10 to -15 below are anticipated. Sunday into Monday accumulating snow remains possible. Check the NWS forecast frequently for updates.
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) District 1 Snow & Ice Team will be monitoring the weather – especially accumulation predictions – and adjust plans based on the evolving forecast.
KYTC District 1 crews are prepared to respond to whatever comes at the region. Crews are prepping chainsaws and associated equipment to prepare for downed trees from the high winds. Crews will be prepared to respond quickly should the sleet and snow impact travel in localized areas of the region.
District 1 Chief Engineer Kyle Poat noted that rain ahead of the approaching snow prevents pre-treating.
“We’ll have team members out checking road conditions so we can call in crews as they are needed,” Poat said. “The extreme cold that comes with this system will create some additional challenges for our crews and the public.”
Poat urged anyone who plans to be out on the road over the next six days to carefully watch the evolving forecast and to take the hazards posed by high winds and extreme cold seriously.
“When temperatures get into the single digits or below zero, something as simple as a dead battery or flat tire that would normally be an inconvenience can quickly become a life-threatening situation. If you go outdoors or travel, please wear clothing that is appropriate for the extreme cold heading our way,” Poat added.
KYTC District 1 has about 200 employees involved in snow response efforts with 115 snow plows, five tow-plows, and 17 contract plows to cover 2,850 miles of highway in Kentucky’s 12 westernmost counties.
Statewide, more than 1,400 plow trucks are on deck with more than 2,000 staff and crew members trained and prepped to keep travelers moving.
KYTC maintains most roads, streets and bridges that are part of the State Highway System, including interstates, parkways, and U.S. route designations.
Driver Tips This Winter Season
Safe roadways are a shared responsibility, especially during inclement weather when risks increase. Motorists, too, need to prepare for winter and remain safe by following these tips:
- Travel only when necessary during major snow events.
- Stock vehicles with ice scrapers, jumper cables, blankets, a flashlight, a cell phone charger, non-perishable snacks and a first aid kit should you get stranded on the road.
- Winterize your vehicle. Check your car battery, tire pressure and brakes. Ensure your heater, defroster, headlights and windshield wipers are working properly.
- When snow and/or ice are on roadways, drive slowly no matter what type of vehicle you drive. It takes more time and distance to stop your vehicle in poor weather, so brake early and slowly.
- Pay attention to weather advisories and allow more time to travel for routine commutes.
- Slow down when approaching intersections, off-ramps, bridges or shaded areas. These are all candidates for developing black ice – a thin coating of hard-to-see clear ice that can form on the pavement surface.
- Maintain a safe distance from snowplows and other heavy highway equipment, and do not pass snowplows on the shoulder.
- Know before you go. Download the free WAZE app or visit ky.gov to check traffic conditions before you travel. The map also offers access to select traffic cameras on interstates and parkways.
- Buckle up! Phone down! Eliminate distractions while driving.
Visit snowky.ky.gov for snow and ice resources, like priority route maps, tips and highway district updates.