Crews working to clear roadways; officials urge caution to motorists

Crews throughout District 11 – in Jackson, Clay, Leslie, Whitley, Knox, Laurel, Bell and Harlan Counties – are out plowing and salting state routes this morning.

Motorists are urged to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. If circumstances require travel, drivers should use extreme caution, as many roads district-wide are snow-covered. In addition to the hazards presented by snow, black ice poses a serious problem, especially on bridges and overpasses.

Accumulating snow and high winds are expected to persist district-wide through the morning hours.

Crews will work to clear state routes so long as the threat remains for hazardous driving conditions. They will follow a course of action dictated by the KYTC‚s predetermined priority maps, which are available at http://transportation.ky.gov/Maintenance/snow_ice.htm.

Road condition reports for major routes in Kentucky are available by calling 511 or by visiting the 511 travel and traffic information web site at http://511.ky.gov. Conditions are described in the following manner:

Wet Pavement ˆ The roadway is wet. Ice could form as the temperature drops.

Partly Covered ˆ The roadway is partly covered with snow, slush or ice. Markings may be obscured.

Mostly Covered ˆ The roadway is mostly covered with snow, slush, or ice. Roadway markers may be difficult to see because of packed snow and rutting conditions.

Completely Covered ˆ The roadway is completely covered with snow, slush, or ice. Markings are obscured.

Impassable ˆ Roadway conditions are not suitable for travel unless required by an emergency.

KYTC strives to provide the most descriptive and up-to-date information for motorists so they will know what to expect prior to a trip. Drivers are also reminded that bridges and overpasses are typically the most treacherous under wintry conditions.  Motorists should always use extra caution when traveling during inclement weather.

Additional safety tips for travelers during the snow and ice season:

• Make sure your vehicle is sufficiently winterized ˆ check the battery, antifreeze level, heater, defroster, wipers, and windshield washers.

• Dress warmly for the weather ˆ dress in layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing, in anticipation of unexpected winter weather emergencies.

• Try to keep your gas tank at least two-thirds full to prevent fuel line freezing and to prepare for possible lengthy delays on the roadway.

• Make sure a friend or relative is aware of your travel route. Carry a cell phone.

• Make sure your vehicle has an emergency care kit. The kit should include jumper cables, flares or reflectors, windshield washer fluid, an ice scraper, blankets, non-perishable food, a first aid kit, and traction material.

• Give a wide berth to snow removal equipment.

• Check the forecast and call 511 before you leave. If conditions are dangerous, avoid travel, unless it‚s absolutely necessary.

• www.highwaysafety.ky.gov/files/tipsheets/winterdriving.pdf provides additional safe winter driving tips.