Kentucky Emergency Management
OFFICIALS ENCOURAGE CAUTION AS WINTER STORM APPROACHES

FRANKFORT, Ky.  (Jan. 20, 2011) - State and local officials continue tracking a winter storm as it moves across the Commonwealth.  Since late last week, the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management (KYEM), along with local and state officials, have been tracking this system through the National Weather

Service (NWS).   The Commonwealth Emergency Operations Center (CEOC) does not
expect to activate beyond Level One (normal operations), but is maintaining increased situational awareness and prepared to offer assistance to local governments, if requested. 

NWS offices serving Kentucky have issued winter storm advisories and warnings for the Commonwealth, with snow accumulations ranging from two to four inches in far western parts of the state; one to three inches along the Tennessee border; two to four inches in the Louisville and Bluegrass regions; four to six inches in the northern counties; and one to three inches in the eastern counties. 

"Looking at the weather computer models, we anticipate this to be more of a transportation event and do not expect any major problems," said John Heltzel, director of KYEM.  "However, everyone should use caution and avoid travel until the road crews have had time to clear the roads. If you must travel, use caution, go slow and leave plenty of room between vehicles."

The snow maker is expected to exit Kentucky on Friday, but colder air and increased winds are expected to follow behind the snow system with some drifting of blowing snow possible.  If you travel during this time, take along a flashlight, water, food and extra blankets in case you encounter difficulties.  If you become stranded, stay with your vehicle until help arrives. 

Should you encounter a downed power line, do not approach it, call your utility provider. If power is out in your home and you use an alternate heat source, be sure to have proper ventilation.  If you use a generator, follow the manufacturers' directions.  DO NOT use a generator indoors, as they emit carbon monoxide, a colorless/odorless gas that can cause death.

Road conditions throughout the state can be found on Kentucky Transportation Cabinet's website at:  www.511.ky.gov, by calling 511 in Kentucky or
1-866-737-3767 for out-of-state callers.

Winter safety tips, including winter driving tips and county-by-county weather alerts, can be found on the KYEM website at www.kyem.ky.gov.

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