State of emergency declared as Kentucky braces for severe winter weather

A state of emergency has been declared as of Friday morning ahead of a severe winter storm system that is expected to affect much of Kentucky over the weekend.

The storm, expected to begin overnight Friday, may contain heavy snow with significant accumulations, sleet, ice and arctic temperatures, creating dangerous travel and road conditions and the potential for power outages.

The state of emergency declaration from Governor Andy Beshear allows for the activation of state resources, including Kentucky Emergency Management (KYEM) and the Kentucky National Guard (KYNG), to help protect Kentucky communities and families.

“This is a serious storm that will likely cause dangerous conditions on our roads and potential power outages, which is why we are doing everything we can to keep Kentuckians safe,” Beshear said while issuing the order. “We ask that everyone does what they can to prepare now. Run any necessary errands before the storm, avoid traveling while conditions are dangerous, and have weather alerts turned on to stay informed.”

The following steps are also being implemented ahead of the winter storm:

--The state’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) will be activated and operating at level 3 beginning at 7 a.m. EST Saturday and will be fully staffed through Monday.

--Water is being pre-positioned across the state in anticipation of water outages.

--KYEM is working with local counties to establish warming centers.

--KYNG armories around the state will be fully staffed.

--Generators and wrecker service contracts are in place and on call.

Gov. Beshear also implemented the state’s price gouging laws to protect Kentuckians from overpriced goods and services. With the state of emergency in place, consumers can report price gouging to the Office of the Attorney General.

Drivers are urged to check traffic conditions before traveling at GoKy.ky.gov.

For additional preparedness tips, visit kyem.ky.gov.