LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — Kentucky is gearing up for the start of winter weather.
It's expected to start with overnight rainfall and starting on Monday, it will transition to snow.
Since it will be starting with rain, Lexington city officials say they will not be able to pre-treat the roads first.
"This snow looks like a typical Kentucky snow. It's going to start out as rain, which is unfortunate cause it keeps us from pre-treating with brine," says Josh Allen, the Director of Streets and Roads for the city of Lexington.
With Governor Beshear's mandate ordering all schools to close to in-person learning due to COVID-19, there will probably be fewer people on the roads for the morning and evening commute. The governor has also promoted work from home as much as possible.
Liz Buckler says she hopes that mandate helps reduces accidents.
"It's probably a good time. One of the good things about the Coronavirus is people aren't going to be going to school or work, so hopefully, the traffic will be less in the morning when there is black ice," said Buckler.
Officials do say they have a plan in place though they will be constantly watching the changing weather through the night and day.
All winter long, Allen says half of the city's "snow fighters" are on-call to monitor and treat areas, especially more dangerous spots, like hills, bridges, and overpasses.
Allen still recommends people stay off the roads during inclement weather if they can.
"Definitely cut out the unnecessary trips, the big thing is most of the accidents we see are because of excessive speed," says Allen.
Kentucky State Police Troopers have also sent out a release warning motorist to be patient on the road, and to make sure they have a winter kit with them while traveling. It should be equipped with supplies like a phone charger, blankets, a flashlight, and a jumper cable.
