Kentucky got its first measurable snowfall of the season Monday night into this morning and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is treating roads as necessary.
While most of the state is expected to see and inch or less accumulation, some parts could see two inches, especially in the southwest, north and east. Most of Kentucky is under a winter weather advisory for this snow event.
Since the system will begin as rain, highway crews are not able to put down anti-icing material on the roads prior to the weather system moving in. The warm weather Sunday and Monday will help reduce the possibility of hazardous road conditions, but temperatures plummeted overnight. If there is water on the roadway during this time it could freeze creating some icy conditions.
In District 6, which includes Boone, Bracken, Campbell, Carroll, Gallatin, Grant, Harrison, Kenton, Owen, Pendleton and Robertson counties in Northern Kentucky, crews reported in late Monday afternoon, to deal with up to two inches of snow in the forecast. They will especially focus on bridges, overpasses and higher elevated roads that would be more prone to freezing.
Drivers should plan their morning commute by leaving early to allow more time to reach their destination or later to allow the conditions to improve. If you must travel, motorists should simply remember – When it snows, take it slow.
During the winter, Transportation officials urge people to:
• Pay attention to weather advisories. Weather will impact your commute on some level
• Travel only as necessary during major snow events. It’s better to be stuck at home than to be stuck on the road
• Maintain a safe distance from snowplows and other heavy highway equipment
• Do not pass snowplows on the shoulder
• Allow time for a slower commute
• Winterize vehicles
• Supply vehicles with blankets, a flashlight and an emergency supply kit
• Know before you go. Visit goky.ky.gov and download the free Waze app to check traffic conditions before you travel
• Eliminate distractions like operating your phone and eating while driving
• Cooperate with the expectations of the Quick Clearance law, which requires drivers to move vehicles to the shoulder in the event of a non-injury crash.
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has a webpage just for snow and ice information where you can learn more about priority routes, access helpful winter weather tips and fact sheets and view informational videos on salt application and snow removal.
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