(PADUCAH, Ky.) — Road crews across western Kentucky are working to stay ahead of an approaching winter storm that could bring hazardous conditions to the region Monday night into Tuesday morning.
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s District 1 teams began anti-icing operations Sunday, applying brine solution to interstates, parkways and four-lane highways throughout the area. The preemptive measure comes as the National Weather Service issued a Winter Weather Advisory for most counties in the district, warning of a potentially dangerous mix of freezing rain, sleet and snow.
“Pre-treating with brine provides an opportunity for highway crews to get a head start on a snow and ice event,” transportation officials said. The liquid brine dries into a fine salt powder on the pavement that activates when precipitation begins to fall, preventing snow and ice from bonding to the road surface.
District 1’s Snow and Ice Team plans to monitor conditions throughout the night, ready to deploy additional crews and adjust response strategies as the weather develops.
Authorities are urging drivers to exercise caution during overnight travel and Tuesday’s morning commute. Even roads that have been pre-treated may become slick as the wintry precipitation moves through the area.
Residents can track road conditions in real time at GoKY.ky.gov, which provides traffic updates and access to interstate cameras. Additional winter weather resources, including priority route maps and safe driving tips, are available at SnowKY.ky.gov.
The advisory affects much of the Purchase and surrounding areas as the region prepares for its first significant winter weather event of the season.
