Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) District 1 crews are prepared to mobilize for another round of winter precipitation starting Sunday night. Friday night and Saturday crews in many of the district’s 12 counties spend time restocking salt supplies, changing out plow blades, and performing maintenance on trucks and equipment.
The District 1 Snow & Ice Team has developed tentative plans for the approaching winter storm. The team is awaiting the Sunday afternoon forecast update for more accurate snow accumulation numbers to make adjustments.
Supervisors attempted to give area snow-fighters some time off today and Sunday, while small teams continued working in many counties on equipment maintenance and restocking salt supplies. The goal is to have all equipment fueled and ready to roll out for the next round when the snow starts late Sunday.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for Sunday evening through Monday night (See attached graphics). Snow is expected to start in the afternoon or evening hours Sunday with a break on Monday morning, followed by another round of snow Monday afternoon and evening. NWS forecasters indicate a total accumulation in the 3 to 9-inch range is likely. A more specific accumulation estimated should be available Sunday afternoon.
No pre-treating activities will be required by KYTC District 1 crews this weekend. The heavy application of salt and other ice-fighting chemicals required to clear ice from roadways the last few days has left a salt residue on driving surfaces that will give highway crews a head start on the next winter event.
KYTC engineers continue to remind everyone that extra caution is required during the extreme cold as something as simple as a dead battery can become life-threatening if you become stranded.
Real-time travel conditions are available at goky.ky.gov or via the WAZE APP.
KY Transportation Cabinet/Keith Todd photo.