Area ‘Snowfighters’ Prep for Possible Snow Showers Monday

Wintry mix may cause temporary poor visibility and hazardous conditions, travelers advised to stay weather aware and slow down on roadways

 Kentuckians are encouraged to stay weather-aware and practice safe driving behaviors as part of the state braces for winter weather late this morning through the evening hours that may impact travel.  

The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for portions of central Kentucky and predicts the combination of falling temperatures, 25-30 mph winds, and brief bursts of snow will create poor driving conditions, especially when temperatures drop below freezing. Snowfall accumulations are predicted to be light, with scattered snow squalls possible. 

Snow squalls – sudden, brief but intense bursts of snow coupled with gusty winds- happen rapidly and reduce visibility. All 8 counties in KYTC District 5 are under a snow squall warning, and motorists are advised to delay travel. If already on the road, slow down, turn on your lights and safely exit the road if possible.

KYTC District 5 snowfighters are monitoring road conditions and can be dispatched if traveling conditions are impacted by the winter weather advisory issued for our serviced area.  The district has 172 plow trucks prepped, with 72 being dedicated solely to Jefferson County.

District 5 is responsible for clearing more than 3,500 single-lane miles of state-maintained highways in Bullitt, Franklin, Henry, Jefferson, Oldham, Shelby, Spencer, and Trimble counties. Per an ongoing agreement with Louisville Metro government, the Metro Department of Public Works is responsible for the about 400 miles of state roads in Jefferson County. This frees up District 5 crews and contractors to focus on the interstates in the county.

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.

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Editors Note: Click here for broll footage of KYTC crews in action

 

Metro Louisville Public Works

Per the National Weather Service Louisville Office, snow flurries and a passing heavier snow showers are in today’s forecast for our area. Most will not accumulate, but some may cause a localized light coating mainly on elevated surfaces if a heavier snow shower moves through.

As a precaution, Metro Public Works Metro Snow Team members will be out monitoring high-risk areas; bridge decks, overpasses, hilly roadways, and other elevated surfaces, which typically freeze before other surfaces. If necessary, crews will spot treat those areas to keep roads in safe driving conditions.

https://www.lojic.org/snow-map