State Crews Plowing Snow-Covered Roads in Northeast Kentucky This Morning
Snow continues to fall; avoid travel or take it slow
FLEMINGSBURG, Ky. (5:30 AM Jan. 19, 2024) – State highway crews are plowing and treating snow-covered roads in northeast Kentucky this morning as snow continues to fall across the region. Slick conditions reported on all highways. Travel is not advised.
As of 5:30 a.m., state highways in Bath, Boyd, Carter, Elliott, Fleming, Greenup, Lewis, Mason, Nicholas, and Rowan counties are reported as mostly covered with snow. Some pavement is visible in wheel paths on main Priority A routes such as I-64. Priority B and C routes are still snow covered.
Air temperatures average 25 degrees and pavement is 29. All roadways should be considered slick.
Salt truck and plow crews have worked through the night and will remain on duty throughout the day.
Daylight and rising temps combined with continued salt treatment and plowing should help improve pavement conditions, but highways will not be clear until after the storm passes. Motorists should avoid non-essential travel.
If you must be on the road, slow down put down the phone, keep plenty of space between vehicles, pack an emergency kit, buckle up, and plan ahead. Check real-time traffic and traffic cameras at GoKY.ky.gov.
During winter storms, Kentucky Department of Highways District 9 crews operate around the clock using a four-tier priority system to keep people and commerce moving in the most effective way.
Follow District 9 on social media – @KYTCDistrict9 on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) – for updates.
Tips for driving during snow and icy conditions:
- Alter travel plans to avoid driving during the peak of weather activity.
- Drive with a full tank of gas and pack an emergency car kit that contains essential items like blankets, ice scrapers, jumper cables, 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 tread, 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. Expect delays.
- Slow down when approaching intersections, off-ramps, bridges or shaded areas. These are all candidates for developing “black ice” – a thin coating of clear ice that can form on the pavement surface that may be difficult to see.
- Maintain a safe distance from snowplows and other heavy highway equipment, and do not pass snowplows on the shoulder.
- Eliminate distractions while driving, such as using a phone and or eating, and always buckle up.
What to do if you see a downed power line:
- Report it to your local utility company
- Do not try to clear it yourself
- Steer clear and avoid anything touching downed lines, including vehicles or tree branches.
Visit SnowKY.ky.gov for snow and ice resources, like priority route maps, tips and highway district news from across Kentucky.
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