The first winter storm system of the new year brought record-breaking snow to western Kentucky and caused Gov. Andy Beshear to declare a state of emergency after 5 to 6 inches of snow fell in Trigg and Christian counties.
The National Weather Service canceled Friday’s winter storm warning during the six o’clock hour Thursday night after the snowfall broke the former single-day record of 4.1 inches in 1996.
Snowplows were active on roads and interstates Thursday although overnight lows in single digits kept the roads from thawing. The severe weather has affected travel on major interstates, and state and local roadways as well as causing power outages and damage to public infrastructure and private properties.
Transportation Cabinet Spokesman Keith Todd said crews made good progress in their efforts to improve driving conditions across the region. However, roadways were expected to re-freeze overnight.
He said most “A” snow priority routes were in good condition by mid-Thursday and crews made plow runs on some “B” snow priority routes. Many “C” priority routes will be plowed on Friday.
Bridges, overpasses, and many ramps continue to have icy spots.
Todd said salt and other snow-fighting chemicals lose their effectiveness below about 16 degrees. He added most crews will return at daylight as temperatures rise to a high of about 25 degrees Friday.
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and the Kentucky State Police are continuing to work on all of the interstates. The Kentucky National Guard is activated at all interstate closures and standing by on others without closures. Search and rescue teams have been activated for safety checks on stranded motorists. And the Red Cross is monitoring the need for warming centers.
You can visit GOKy.Ky.gov to track hazardous road conditions across the commonwealth.
If you find yourself in a crash or fender bender, remember Kentucky’s Quick Clearance Law. If no one is injured, you can move your vehicle to the shoulder or off of the interstate or parkway, call the police & exchange information with the other party.
