Governor Andy Beshear has declared a state of emergency ahead of a severe winter storm expected to impact much of Kentucky beginning overnight Friday.
The storm could bring heavy snow, sleet, ice and dangerously cold temperatures, creating hazardous travel conditions and the potential for power outages across the commonwealth. The emergency declaration allows the state to activate resources, including Kentucky Emergency Management and the Kentucky National Guard, to assist local communities.
The State Emergency Operations Center is preparing to activate at Level 3.
Beshear is urging Kentuckians to prepare now by running errands early, avoiding travel during dangerous conditions and keeping weather alerts turned on.
As part of storm preparations, the Emergency Operations Center will be activated at 6 a.m. local time Saturday and remain fully staffed through Monday. Water supplies are being pre-positioned in anticipation of possible outages, and state officials are working with local governments to establish warming centers. National Guard armories will be fully staffed, and generators and wrecker services are on standby.
The governor has also activated Kentucky’s price gouging laws to protect consumers from inflated prices during the emergency. Suspected price gouging can be reported to the Office of the Attorney General.
Drivers are encouraged to check road conditions before traveling at GoKy.ky.gov. Additional winter weather preparedness information is available at kyem.ky.gov.
