White Christmas in the forecast, conditions could turn dangerous

If some weather forecasts hold true, then we can definitely expect a White Christmas this year. The bad news is we could also see dangerous driving conditions, ice, and historically low temperatures to go along with it.

Former WYMT Chief Meteorologist Shane Smith explained Monday that the incoming system is nothing to play around with, saying, “a super-cold air mass will be pushed down by a high-pressure system near the north pole. Between Tuesday and Wednesday, the air mass will be coming through Canada, Alaska, and the Pacific northwest. It will then dive down into the Rockies, move across the plains, and should be in the Ohio Valley by Thursday or Friday.”

Smith said that temperatures could drop 20-40 degrees in the span of a few hours when this air mass moves through. “This is true arctic air in every sense of the word,” he said. “And we will have rain before that air mass moves in, which could flash freeze and cause treacherous road conditions.”

As for snowfall, the outlook has been uncertain in recent days. Regardless of accumulation, however, one of the main threats with this system will be the extreme cold.

“This could be something that we haven’t seen around here since the blizzard of 1978,” Smith said, referencing the January event of that year that saw temperatures plummet some 60 degrees over the course of several hours.

“We could see dangerously cold wind chills, 20 degrees below zero or worse, with winds up to 40-50 mph at times. Frostbite could set in within as little of a half hour of exposure.”

As for how to properly prepare for the potential ice, snow and bitterly cold temperatures, local emergency service personnel have offered several helpful tips.

“Reduce your speed by nearly half on slick roadways,” advised Nathan Kirby, Public Information Officer for the Corbin Fire Department. “You should not leave the house unless it is absolutely necessary if the roads are iced over, but if you do have to leave, make sure that your cell phone is charged up before heading out.”

Kirby also strongly suggested keeping supplies, such as gloves and a blanket, inside the vehicle in case of an emergency, and he said that dressing in multiple layers is an effective way to stay warm when temperatures begin to drop.

Kirby directed citizens to the Corbin Fire Department Facebook page, where several tips have been posted since earlier this week. He also said that, should the decision be made to set up any warming centers inside the city, that information will also be posted there when it becomes available.

Williamsburg Fire Chief Larry Todd pointed out that this winter weather event is being forecast to occur just days after the conclusion of Kentucky Winter Weather Awareness Week (Dec. 4-10), and provided a link to the National Weather Service’s website where a multitude of helpful tips can be found. Those interested can visit the site at www.weather.gov/lmk/KY_WinterWeatherAwarenessWeek_2022.

Todd said that plans are in place to utilize the Williamsburg Fire Department building, located at 845 US Hwy 25W South, as a warming center during the upcoming cold weather event, but those seeking shelter for the night will need to look elsewhere once they have had a chance to come by, grab a cup of hot coffee or cocoa, and thaw out a bit.

Same as with Corbin Fire Department, Todd encouraged Williamsburg residents to keep an eye on social media for any potential additional announcements related to how the city will respond to the severe winter weather.

Both Kirby and Todd also stressed the importance of proper ventilation when using generators and/or portable heat sources, warning to remain aware of threats related to both fire and carbon monoxide emissions.

Finally, Kentucky Transportation Department Chief District Engineer Chris Jones said that crews will continue to monitor the situation, and will respond accordingly when the time comes.

“Every year we start making preparations for different winter weather scenarios as soon as the previous season ends,” Jones explained. “We are training our staff, and making sure our equipment is ready to go. Whether it is snow or ice, we’ll be ready.”

Jones cautioned drivers to allow more time for travel on the roads if the conditions are not ideal, making sure to grant additional time and distance when stopping. He also asked for drivers to be aware of any snow and ice removal equipment that may be encountered on the roadways, saying it is important to give crews sufficient space to safely do their jobs.

The News Journal will provide additional details concerning severe winter weather in our area should it occur in the coming days.