County, state braces for major winter storm

FRANKFORT  (KT) – The first major winter storm of the season will affect Kentucky starting Saturday evening in the west, and on Sunday and Monday in the east, with snow, sleet, freezing rain and even a combination of all three expected across the state, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for that period.

During a conference call Friday afternoon, John Gordon, who heads the NWS office in Louisville, says that the combination of wintry weather is expected to cause hazardous travel conditions and possible power outages in the state.

“Northern Kentucky could see 6-10 inches of snow,” according to Gordon. “The area along I-64, 3-6 inches. South of the Western Kentucky and Bluegrass Parkways, 1-3 inches, and the lowest amount in the Southern end of the state.”

Gordon says ice will be the biggest hazard, with one quarter to three quarters of an inch in much of the state. Madison County also is under the threat of snow and ice.

After the storm, bitter cold with single digit lows are being forecast Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights, but if there is a significant snow pack, some areas could see temperatures below zero.

When asked if there is any “bust” potential for the snow and ice forecast, Gordon replied, “There’s a 100 percent chance we’ll have precipitation, there’s a 100 percent chance of winter weather. There is a bust potential in the amounts. If the cold air dominates, we could get more snow, but if it really warms up, the amounts could bust. But it’s going to happen.”  

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has this advice:

• 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.

* Maintain a safe distance from snowplows and other heavy highway equipment, and do not pass snowplows on the shoulder.