The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) District 8 crews are gearing up for another round of winter weather expected to impact the region Friday.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a winter storm warning for District 8, forecasting 4 to 6 inches of snow starting Friday and continuing into Saturday.
Crews from all counties within District 8 will report for duty early Friday. Teams will operate in 12-hours shifts, working around the clock to plow and treat roadways throughout the storm.
KYTC’s mission is to keep traffic moving in a safe manner with an emphasis on maintaining mobility along critical corridors and priority routes. KYTC uses a priority system based on the amount and nature of traffic within each individual county. Priority A routes include major through routes and are those most heavily traveled. Priority B routes include other important, but lesser traveled, state routes. Other roads fall into Priority C.
The Cabinet’s snow and ice information website, http://snowky.ky.gov, provides details about priority routes, helpful winter weather tips, fact sheets and videos on salt application and snow removal.
Motorists are advised to exercise caution, reduce speeds, and allow extra travel time if traveling during winter weather. Remember to provide plenty of room for snowplows and other equipment.
Stay informed of road conditions by visiting go.ky.gov or following KYTC District 8 on social media.
Be prepared:
The following measures will help keep motorists safe and prepared:
- Put yourself in emergency mode
- 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, flash light 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. You can also get traffic information for the District 8 counties at www.facebook.com/KYTCDistrict8 or by following us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/KYTCDistrict8.
- Eliminate distractions (e.g. operating 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
KYTC District 8 is responsible for maintaining state highways in Adair, Casey, Clinton, Cumberland, Lincoln, McCreary, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Russell and Wayne counties.