Gov. Beshear Declares State of Emergency Ahead of Winter Storm System

By Todd Nardone General Manager, TNW News LLC January 4, 2025

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Governor Andy Beshear has declared a state of emergency in anticipation of a severe winter storm system projected to impact much of Kentucky beginning Sunday, January 5, 2025. The storm is expected to bring significant snowfall, freezing rain, ice accumulation, and dangerously low temperatures.

The Governor has activated the Kentucky National Guard to respond as necessary, while state transportation crews and emergency management teams are preparing to address the storm's challenges. Local officials are coordinating efforts to establish warming centers for those in need.

“This winter storm will likely cause significant disruption and dangerous conditions on our roads and could lead to power outages,” said Gov. Beshear. “We are committed to ensuring every Kentucky family and those traveling through our state have the resources and information needed to stay safe.”

Key Actions Taken:

• State Emergency Operations Center: Activated at midnight on January 5 to oversee the state’s coordinated response.
• Emergency Price Gouging Laws: Implemented to protect consumers from inflated prices for essential goods and services.
• Transportation Preparations: State highway crews have been pre-treating roads and readying snow-clearing equipment.
• Emergency Fuel Supply Measures: KYTC Secretary Jim Gray has issued an order to maintain adequate supplies of propane, fuel oil, and kerosene, temporarily suspending certain regulations for motor carriers transporting relief supplies.

Safety Guidance for Residents:

Driving Precautions:

• Avoid non-essential travel and give snowplows ample space.
• Prepare an emergency car kit if travel is unavoidable.
• Treat dark traffic signals as four-way stops and avoid downed power lines.

Generator Safety:

• Operate generators only in well-ventilated, outdoor areas to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

Road Conditions: Monitor traffic updates at GoKY.ky.gov and plan extra time for your Monday commute if necessary.

“Our focus is on keeping priority routes open, like interstates and parkways,” said Secretary Gray. “Extreme cold will make travel hazardous and slow even the best road treatments, especially at night. Motorists should drive distraction-free and reduce their speed.”

Preparedness Tips:

Residents are urged to:

• Stay indoors during the storm if possible.
• Stock up on essentials like food, water, and medication.
• Check on neighbors, especially the elderly and those with special needs.
• Use emergency heat sources safely and avoid fire risks.

Resources:

For more information and updates, visit:

• TNWWeather.com
• Kentucky Emergency Management
• Governor’s Office

Stay tuned to TNW News LLC for ongoing coverage and updates from the TNW Winter Weather Center and Breaking News Team.