District 8 Snowfighters Continue to Treat and Plow Roads; Hazardous driving conditions remain; more snowfall expected

SOMERSET, KY (Jan. 15, 2024) - Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) District 8 highway crews continue to plow and treat roadways across the district, all roads remain partially to completely covered and slick.

The combination of below-freezing air and pavement temperatures poses challenges to how fast salt and de-icing materials can melt snow, especially after dark. Motorists should avoid travel if possible. If you must travel slow down, leave plenty of space between vehicles and give yourself extra time to reach your destination.

Crews will remain focused on priority A snow routes- which include interstates, parkways, U.S. highways, and some other 4-lane routes. Once those routes are addressed crews will work to clear priority B and C routes. KYTC asks for patience as crews are working as hard as they can to clear routes. For a complete county-by-county snow and ice priority list please go to: http://SnowKY.ky.gov.

A winter storm warning remains for our area with additional snowfall expected into the early morning hours of Tuesday. Motorists should watch for slick roads tonight and during the Tuesday morning commute, even on treated surfaces, due to the re-freezing of moisture and extended cold temperatures.

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 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 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.

For real-time traffic information or to keep up with state snowfighters in your county, visit http://GoKY.ky.gov. Follow District 8 updates on Twitter and Facebook at http://twitter.com/KYTCDistrict8  or http://facebook.com/KYTCDistrict8.

KYTC District 8 is responsible for maintaining state highways in Adair, Casey, Clinton, Cumberland, Lincoln, McCreary, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Russell and Wayne counties.