Gov. Beshear provides update on severe weather

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Gov. Andy Beshear has shared another update on severe winter weather as it continues to affect communities across Kentucky.

According to the governor’s office, overnight storms resulted in 2 to 8 inches of snow across the Commonwealth, with the largest accumulations in western Kentucky.

“The areas hit hardest by flooding are going to get another 3 to 4 inches of snow tonight,” Beshear said. “And if the snow wasn’t tough enough, it’s cold right now, and it’s going to get dangerously cold tonight into tomorrow. The wind chills across much of Kentucky are going to get down into the single digits or even lower.”

Rain and snowfall will be followed by very low temperatures Thursday through Friday, officials say. Windchills on Thursday morning will be dangerously cold.

On Friday, the governor declared a state of emergency. This was followed by an approved request for an emergency disaster declaration in Kentucky.

Beshear is encouraging Kentuckians to stay safe while shoveling snow and remain aware of the threat of cardiac arrest during this activity. He urged people to take it slow, push the snow instead of lifting it and to drink plenty of fluids and take frequent breaks.

Officials say 250 Kentucky guardsmen are actively responding to the aftermath of flooding and winter conditions. Meanwhile, the Kentucky State Police has answered 2,508 calls for service since Feb. 15.

According to officials, extreme cold in the next days will make it difficult for crews to clear roads as salt and other anti-icing materials become less effective. High winds could also create blowing or drifting snow. Flooded roadways could freeze, bringing additional hazards.

Officials encourage drivers to stay home if they can and use caution if they must travel.

If you have immediate needs that are not life-threatening, please complete the Rapid Needs Assessment Form or call 502-607-6665. These needs include inconsistent power or an outage, no heat or very little heat, individuals with medical needs or disabilities, no food or unable to cook, no or very little drinking water, unable to leave house due to weather or lack of transportation, phone issues, unable to leave vehicle, checking on a loved one and more.