(PADUCAH, Ky.) — Road crews across western Kentucky worked through the day and into the night Friday as waves of snow moved through the region, forcing the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet to deploy snow fighters on round-the-clock shifts.
The winter storm began with early morning snowfall before heavier bands of snow swept across District 1’s 12 counties throughout the day, according to KYTC officials. Crews focused their efforts on priority routes, including interstates, parkways and major highways critical for public safety and emergency services.
During the heaviest snowfall periods, plow operators made multiple passes along the same routes to keep roads passable, officials said. Lower-priority routes may not see plows until later in the storm.
The National Weather Service’s Winter Storm Watch remains in effect through Sunday night. Forecasters predict western Kentucky may see a brief break in precipitation Saturday afternoon before snow resumes, possibly mixing with sleet, especially in southern counties near the Tennessee border.
Transportation officials are urging residents to avoid non-essential travel. Below-freezing temperatures may reduce the effectiveness of snow-melting materials and increase the risk of refreezing on roadways.
Those who must travel should prepare for extreme cold, reduce their speed and pack an emergency vehicle kit in case they become stranded, officials warned. Motorists are also reminded to keep a safe distance from snow plows and highway equipment and never attempt to pass plows using the shoulder.
District 1’s Snow and Ice Team continues monitoring roadway conditions and will adjust response strategies as conditions change.
For weather and road condition updates, visit SnowKY.ky.gov, GoKY.ky.gov, or follow @KYTCDistrict1 on Facebook and X.
