They said it was coming, and this time “they” are correct.
The snow continues to fall and the weather map indicates as of mid-morning Monday we are only halfway through the big, ugly purple overlay that apparently means snow, snow and snow.
Forecasters say we can see as much as 12 inches of snow before this is over. That’s what we may see; here is what we know now:
Roads are covered and hazardous. Road crews are out working, doing all they can but it’s a losing battle when the snow continues to fall and the temperature is 18 to 20 degrees.
School has been officially closed through Wednesday.
The courthouse annex is open for anyone who may need shelter. There will be tables and chairs but bring your own supplies if possible.
Offices are closed, businesses are closed, and there are very few reasons to be out right now. Unless you have one of those reasons, please just stay home.
Emergency services have their hands full already with emergency runs. Every emergency response risks lives in this weather so please do not add to the burden unless you must. If you need to go somewhere–maybe you work at the hospital–please take every precaution you can. Your life matters. Have an emergency kit of food, flashlight and blanket with you when you travel.
FROM Sharon Burton, Editor
THIS FROM GOV. STEVE BESHEAR:
“Our highway crews will be out in force but are likely to be hard-pressed just to keep interstates and other high priority routes cleared. Frigid temperatures, combined with the risk of becoming stuck in snow, will make for a potentially dangerous situation for travelers. Our first priority must be safety.” – Gov. Steve Beshear.
THIS FROM KENTUCKY STATE POLICE:
Citizens are asked to refrain from contacting local posts about current road conditions. Instead they should call 1-866-737-3767 (#511 from cellular phone) or utilize www.511.ky.gov.
KSP is requesting travelers to observe for potentially stranded motorists. If you see or suspect that someone is stranded, please call 911 or contact the Kentucky State Police at 1-800-222-5555.
KSP will post road closures and weather-related incidents that impact traffic flow on its Facebook and Twitter pages over the next 24 hours.
TIPS FROM THE CABINET FOR HEALTH FAMILY SERVICES:
During this winter storm and cold temperatures, there is a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning from improper use of alternative heating sources to heat homes. Also, the risk of hypothermia is high from individuals not properly dressed for cold temperatures. Fact sheets on winter safety are available at http://healthalerts.ky.gov/Pages/WinterSafety.aspx.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
• Don’t use a generator, charcoal grill, camp stove or other gasoline or charcoal-burning device inside your home, basement or garage or near a window.
• Don’t run a car or truck inside a garage attached to your house, even if you leave the door open.
• Don’t burn anything in a stove or fireplace that isn’t properly vented.
• Don’t heat your house with a gas oven.
• Seek prompt medical attention by calling 911 or the Kentucky Regional Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 if you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning and are feeling dizzy, light-headed, have a headache, chest pain or are feeling nauseous.
• To install a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector in your home or replace the battery when you change the time on your clocks each spring and fall for daylight savings time. If the detector sounds, leave your home immediately and call 911.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has carbon monoxide materials available in 17 languages at: http://www.cdc.gov/co/guidelines.htm.
Hypothermia
• Hypothermia can result when the body’s temperature drops below what is necessary to maintain normal bodily functions. In severe cases or when the body is not warmed properly, death can result.
• To prevent hypothermia, wear appropriate clothing and limit the time you spend outdoors. Layer clothes made of synthetic and wool fabrics, which are best for keeping warm. Remember to wear hats, coats, scarves and gloves.
• Symptoms of hypothermia include shivering, altered speech pattern, abnormally slow rate of breathing, cold pale skin and lethargy. Seek medical attention if you experience signs of hypothermia. Individuals experiencing these symptoms should call 911 or seek medical attention immediately.
