SOMERSET, Ky. (Jan. 3, 2025) – The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) District 8 highway crews are prepared to respond to the significant winter storm forecasted to bring freezing rain, snow, and ice to the region starting Sunday and continuing through the day on Monday.
Potential ice accumulations across much of the area could result in damage to trees and power lines, posing challenges for road crews and impacting response efforts. Single-digit temperatures could also limit the effectiveness of road salt, which performs best above freezing.
Motorists are urged to avoid unnecessary travel during this storm.
District 8 crews have spent the day preparing for an extended winter weather response, loading salt, sharpening chainsaws, and ensuring equipment is ready.
“We take snow and ice response very seriously,” said Chief District Engineer James Jones. “Our highway crews dedicate long hours away from their families to keep roadways clear and safe during winter storms. We appreciate their commitment and encourage the public to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.”
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s snow and ice removal operations prioritize roadway safety and mobility. Crews work in 12-hour shifts to plow and treat roads using a priority system:
- Priority A: Major through routes and heavily traveled roads.
- Priority B: Important but less-traveled state routes.
- Priority C: All other routes.
Snow priority maps for each county can be viewed online at http://SnowKY.ky.gov.
Be Prepared
- Motorists should take the following precautions:
- Pay close attention to weather advisories.
- Limit travel to essential trips during major snow events.
- Maintain a safe distance from snowplows and avoid passing them on the shoulder.
- Allow extra time for slower commutes.
- Winterize vehicles and prepare an emergency kit with blankets, a flashlight, and supplies.
- Check road conditions before traveling using GoKY.ky.gov or the free Waze app.
- Eliminate distractions, such as phone use, while driving.
- Follow the Quick Clearance law, which requires moving vehicles to the shoulder during non-injury crashes.
- Stay Updated: For updates on road conditions in District 8 counties (Adair, Casey, Clinton, Cumberland, Lincoln, McCreary, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Russell, and Wayne), follow KYTC District 8 on Facebook at facebook.com/KYTCDistrict8 or Twitter at twitter.com/KYTCDistrict8.
