Cold Temps Will Hamper Road Condition Improvements

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet snow and ice removal crews plan will continue working late Monday night, according to spokesman Keith Todd. While temperatures are expected in the single digits Monday night, he says crews will continue plowing and spreading salt while temperatures are dropping.

Whenever possible, Todd indicates county crews will keep a small crew available during the overnight hours to respond to emergencies and assist police agencies when needed. He says crews will then go back to full-staffing early Tuesday to resume ice-fighting efforts during daylight hours.

Todd indicates the Snow and Ice Team has several specific recommendations for those who plan to be out on the roads for the next several days:

First, the number one concern for the next several nights is lows are expected to be near zero, causing salt and other ice-fighting chemicals to become inactive, meaning little can be done to improve road conditions during the overnight hours.

Second, drifting snow is a major concern during the overnight hours for the next several days. With 10 mph winds expected, Todd indicates that is enough to create some pretty substantial drifts. Some crews will have personnel on duty overnight to respond to drifts but may be limited in their ability to clear them until morning.

Motorists should make sure you have adequate clothing and gear for the extreme cold before you head out this week in case you become stranded. Also make sure your cell phone is fully charged, and check in with family and friends from time to time to make sure they know where you are.

Finally, state transportation crews are requesting for you to drive with your headlights on even during daylight hours. This will help snow plow drivers and other motorists to see you through the blowing snow. State law requires you to turn on your headlights anytime it is raining or snowing enough to require the use of your windshield wipers.

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