Kentucky Prepares for Severe Winter Storm

News Summary

As freezing temperatures set in, Kentucky braces for a winter storm expected to deliver snow, freezing rain, and ice. Governor Andy Beshear has declared a state of emergency, activating the National Guard and emergency services. Residents are urged to gather supplies and follow safety guidelines for potential power outages. With preparations underway, local officials focus on mitigating road hazards and providing assistance to vulnerable communities. Residents are advised to stay safe by avoiding travel during the storm and utilizing emergency shelters when necessary.

Winter Storm Prep: Kentucky Gears Up for the Icy Onslaught

As the chill sets in this weekend, Kentucky is bracing itself for a winter storm that promises to bring a variety of icy surprises starting Sunday morning. Governor Andy Beshear has declared a state of emergency, urging residents to be ready for significant weather challenges ahead.

The Storm to Come

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm watch, and it’s not hard to see why. With a mix of snow, freezing rain, and ice on the way, temperatures are forecasted to plunge into the arctic range. This drastic weather shift could lead to power outages across the state, which might last for days given the expected freezing conditions.

Getting Ready

In response to the approaching storm, the Kentucky National Guard is being activated to help with the state’s response. State transportation workers are on the frontline, working diligently to clear roads and keep traffic moving. Local emergency management officials are also stepping up, focusing on setting up warming centers for those who may need extra assistance during the cold snap.

Governor Beshear is ensuring everyone is covered by activating the state’s emergency operations center and rolling out price gouging laws to protect consumers from inflated prices on essential goods. It’s all hands on deck to keep residents safe and informed!

Safety First: Generator Guidelines

As power outages are likely, many residents will be looking to generators for backup power. However, caution is key! Here are some practical safety tips when using a generator:

Keep generators at least 10-15 feet away from windows and doors.
Never run them indoors; this prevents dangerous carbon monoxide poisoning.
Know your generator’s wattage capacity and ensure it matches the appliances you are using.
Consider turning off those generators while you sleep to stay alert for any issues.

Statistics from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission emphasize the importance of these precautions, as there are approximately 100 deaths each year in the U.S. due to generator-related carbon monoxide poisoning.

Stock Up and Prepare!

With possible power outages looming, now is the time for residents to gather supplies. Here are some essential items to stock up on:

Non-perishable food items.
Bottled water.
Medications and first-aid supplies.
Electronic devices charged and ready for use.
Apps for news and weather updates downloaded on your device.
Buckets or bathtubs filled with water for potential use if you lose power.
Gather firewood if you depend on a fireplace for heating.
Don’t forget entertainment! Get out those puzzles and games for power outage fun.

Lexington’s Prepared Actions

In Lexington, officials are taking proactive steps by pre-treating roads with salt and Beet Heet, starting Friday. Road crews will be on standby to handle any troublesome road conditions as soon as the storm hits.

The city’s main shelters will keep their doors open 24 hours a day for anyone seeking refuge, particularly the homeless community. It’s especially important for residents to check in on neighbors and family members, particularly those who may require extra help.

Stay Safe and Stay Home

Officials are stressing the importance of safety during the storm. If possible, residents should stay off the roads while the weather worsens. For emergency shelter needs, residents can reach out to the city’s outreach team or dial 3-1-1 during business hours.

As we brace ourselves for what promises to be a challenging winter storm, let’s pull together as a community, stay informed, and help one another through the cold days ahead!