City crews continue snow and ice treatment efforts
News release provided by Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government
Lexington’s first winter storm of the season is here, and it’s all hands on deck, Gorton said.
In this kind of weather, when the National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for Lexington-Fayette County through 7 p.m. today, the City needs the assistance of every resident, Gorton said. “Stay off the roads if you can, check on your neighbors, especially the elderly, protect your pets from the bitter cold, and limit your time outdoors,” Gorton said.
Gorton today called together representatives of several city departments to provide an update on the city’s response to the winter storm:
SNOW EMERGENCY
Yesterday, the Mayor declared a snow emergency, partially activating the city’s Emergency Operations Center, and placing all of its public safety divisions on 24-hour schedules through Thursday.
“This emergency declaration fully mobilizes our public safety resources to help residents handle the severe weather we are experiencing,” Gorton said.
While at this stage the declaration does not ban parking on snow emergency routes, Gorton did encourage residents to avoid parking on these streets, if possible.
“Residents can help our street crews get the streets cleared by not parking on snow emergency routes,” Gorton said. Snow emergency routes are major streets through the city and are marked by signage.
KENTUCKY UTILITIES
As of 1 p.m., approximately 3,800 customers are experiencing power outages in Fayette County. Kentucky Utilities has approximately 400 restoration personnel working to restore power. More than 180 downed electric wires have been reported in Lexington. Residents can view the outage map here.
DIVISION OF STREETS & ROADS
City Streets and Roads crews continue to treat roads with rock salt, salt brine and Beet Heet. Today, the city started delivering an additional 2,000 tons of salt for the new salt barn.
Crews are working 12-hour shifts, said Streets and Roads Director Rob Allen.
DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
The City’s Division of Emergency Management recommends residents stay off the roads and stay indoors, if possible. Air temperatures will remain below freezing tonight through at least Friday night. These conditions can cause frostbite or hypothermia.
If residents are using generators, make sure they are always used outdoors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Residents can sign up for LexAlerts at bereadylexington.com for free weather alerts.
LEXINGTON POLICE
The Bureau of Patrol is staffed and committed to responding to calls for service, Weathers said. The Lexington Police Traffic Section continues to monitor roadways in Lexington and respond to traffic-related incidents.
Between 6 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. today, Lexington Police responded to 57 non-injury collisions, 8 injury collisions, and 166 calls for motorist assistance.
Lexington Police urge residents to check the weather forecast and view the live-time traffic cameras to check road conditions. View the traffic cameras.
Residents who see someone who needs non-emergency assistance can call Lexington Police’s non-emergency number at (859) 258-3600. In case of an emergency, call 911.
LEXINGTON FIRE
The Lexington Fire Department has received 300 calls since yesterday morning. The department is fully staffed and operational.
Firefighters urge residents to use caution with home heating equipment. Space heaters should be at least 3 feet away from combustibles. Although it is always important to have functioning smoke alarms, it is especially important when using alternative heat sources. It is additionally important to have functioning carbon monoxide detectors, as dangers increase when using supplemental heating.
Residents are encouraged to know where home water shut offs are located, and how to turn them off. Additionally, any ashes from woodburning stoves and fireplaces should not be placed in refuse bins.
WASTE MANAGEMENT
The city will not pick up garbage or recyclables tomorrow, January 7. Some roads are too snow-packed for collection trucks to pass through safely.
OFFICE OF HOMELESSNESS PREVENTION AND INTERVENTION
The Office of Homelessness Prevention and Intervention has extended its Emergency Winter Weather Plan through Friday morning. The plan focuses on assisting those who are seeking shelter from the cold weather.
Street Outreach may be contacted to assist individuals in identifying shelter options. If a call is not going through, leave a message.
Citizens who see someone who may need shelter should call LexCall at 311 to be connected with the Office of Homelessness Prevention and Intervention. After business hours, contact the Street Outreach team at (859) 551-8053 or (859) 556-1870. In case of an emergency, call 911.
PARKS & RECREATION
McConnell Springs Park, Hisle Farm Park, and Raven Run Park will be closed tomorrow. The Division of Parks & Recreation will plan to open them on Wednesday. All golf courses are closed.
Stay up-to-date with City winter weather updates by visiting lexingtonky.gov/snowupdates.
News release provided by Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government
https://www.lexingtonky.gov/news/city-crews-continue-snow-ice-treatment-efforts
