RELEASE: Transportation Cabinet preparing for winter weather

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (Jan. 9, 2025) – Kentucky Transportation Cabinet District 3 highway crews are preparing to battle another round of winter weather on Friday. The National Weather Service (NWS) Louisville has placed the District 3 area under a Winter Storm Warning until 6 a.m. Saturday. Driving conditions are expected to deteriorate beginning Friday morning and worsen into Friday afternoon.

The NWS Louisville is predicting the District 3 area to receive 4 to 6 inches of snow Friday into Saturday in some areas. The southern areas of the District are at risk for the higher totals of snow fall. Heavy snow is expected to fall at times which will create more challenges for road crews.

Crews are out for anti-icing operations in some areas today. Motorists should give KYTC vehicles plenty of space while on the road. Crews from each county will be reporting for duty early Friday and will work in shifts throughout the winter weather storm.

Please do not call 911 or law enforcement offices to find out information about road conditions. For road conditions please visit GoKY.ky.gov. Snow & ice information such as priority routes can be found at snowky.ky.gov. Weather forecast updates are available on the NWS Louisville’s Twitter account here, and Facebook account here. The District 3 Twitter account can be found here and the District 3 Facebook account here.

Tips for driving during snow and icy conditions:

• Alter travel plans to avoid driving during the peak of weather activity.
• Drive with a full tank of gas and pack an emergency car kit that contains essential items like blankets, ice scrapers, jumper cables, 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 tread, 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.
• Pay attention to weather advisories and allow more time to travel for routine commutes. Expect delays.
• Slow down when approaching intersections, off-ramps, bridges or shaded areas. These are all candidates for developing “black ice” – a thin coating of clear ice that can form on the pavement surface that may be difficult to see.
• Maintain a safe distance from snowplows and other heavy highway equipment, and do not pass snowplows on the shoulder.
• Eliminate distractions while driving, such as using a phone and or eating, and always buckle up.

What to do if you see a downed power line:

• Report it to your local utility company
• Do not try to clear it yourself
• Steer clear and avoid anything touching downed lines, including vehicles or tree branches