Lexington Prepares for Another Round of Wintry Weather

News Summary

As winter storms loom, Lexington officials are mobilizing resources to ensure public safety. With a winter storm warning in effect, the city urges residents to stay off roads to facilitate snow removal efforts. Emergency plans, including overflow beds for the vulnerable, are in place. Mayor Linda Gorton emphasizes a collaborative approach to keep essential routes clear as snowfall of up to five inches is expected, fostering community support during these wintry conditions.

Lexington Prepares for Another Round of Wintry Weather

As the chill sets in and snowflakes start to swirl, the city of Lexington is gearing up for an impending winter storm that has everyone buzzing. With a winter storm warning in effect until Saturday at 7 a.m., officials are not taking any chances, equipped with concrete plans to keep the roads clear and citizens safe.

Officials Rally to Inform Residents

In a recent press conference, Mayor Linda Gorton led a team of officials from various departments, including police, fire, and emergency management, to outline the city’s snow removal strategy. With an eye on safety, residents are being urged to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. The idea here is simple: the fewer cars on the road, the quicker our hardworking snow removal crews can clear the streets.

Mayor Gorton emphasized that this winter has been rather unusual, with an extended stretch of cold and ice on top of multiple snow events. Residents should brace for potential snow accumulations ranging from 3 to 5 inches. Now is the time to prepare!

Road Safety Tips for Winter Weather

To keep you safe this winter, a few safety reminders were shared during the conference. It’s crucial to clear snow and ice from your vehicles before hitting the road, and make sure to drive cautiously and slowly. Maintaining a safe distance between vehicles can prevent those pesky fender benders, which, to be honest, nobody wants to deal with in this weather.

Meanwhile, comforting news for those worried about road conditions: the snow removal crews will be working around the clock to improve city roads. Already, they’ve begun treating major roadways, focusing on the busiest streets first, like those leading to hospitals and schools.

Acknowledging the Snow Emergency

The city’s snow emergency has been extended until Monday, January 13. With public safety divisions operating on a 24-hour schedule, it’s clear that Lexington is prioritizing the safety of its citizens. During this period, residents should take care not to park on designated snow emergency routes. Doing so will help clear the streets more efficiently, which is a win-win for everyone.

In a bid to keep sidewalks clear in the cold weather, the snow emergency also allows for a delay in the enforcement of the ordinance that normally requires property owners to clear their sidewalks. So, homeowners, take a deep breath; you’ve got a little extra time this time.

Support for the Vulnerable

In a move that reflects Lexington’s commitment to its community, the Office of Homelessness Prevention and Intervention has extended its Emergency Winter Weather Plan through January 17. This means that emergency shelters will open overflow beds, and outreach teams are poised to provide assistance to those who may be unsheltered during this severe weather.

Residents needing support can easily reach out by calling LexCall at 311, or contact the Street Outreach team during after hours. This serious commitment shows that during challenging times, the community truly comes together.

A Collaborative Effort for Road Clearances

Did you know that the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is in charge of managing over 800 miles of state and federal roads right here in Fayette County? It’s a collaborative effort with the city’s snow removal plan that prioritizes roads based on traffic levels and closeness to essential services.

As the city gears up for the storm, it’s essential to keep an eye on local traffic conditions. Police are already reporting numerous non-injury collisions and hazards due to slick roads. By working together, Lexington can weather this storm and emerge safe and sound.

Stay Informed and Stay Safe!

So, as the snow begins to accumulate, keep your spirits high and your travel plans light. Remember, safety comes first in Lexington, and by keeping off the roads, you can help make this winter storm a little less chaotic for everyone. Stay warm, keep your emergency kits stocked, and let’s make it through this wintry spell together!

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Additional Resources

• LEX18: City of Lexington Prepared for Winter Weather
• Wikipedia: Winter Storm
• Spectrum News: Fayette County Schools Snow Plan Update
• Google Search: Winter Weather Safety
• Kentucky.com: Winter Weather Update
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Winter
• WTVQ: Lexington Officials Urge Caution
• Google News: Kentucky Weather
• WKYT: Lexington Winter Storm Trash Pickup Plans
• Google Scholar: Winter Storm Preparedness