Kentucky Governor Provides Update on Winter Storm Power Outage Response

Winter Storm Impact and Response

• ❄️ The winter storm brought more ice than expected, making it a more dangerous event than forecasted, impacting all 120 Kentucky counties.
• ⚠️ Despite the challenges, Kentuckians were prepared, and state agencies activated emergency protocols, including pre-treating roads, preparing equipment, and coordinating with partner agencies.
• 🚨 A state of emergency was declared, activating price gouging laws, and an emergency disaster declaration was approved by the President.

Power Outages and Restoration Efforts

• ⚡ Currently, there are 47,123 power outages, down from a peak of 73,590, with about a third of outages addressed.
• 🛠️ Crews are working to restore power, with a significant number of utility field crews deployed, including mutual aid from neighboring states.
• 🧊 Ice accumulation, with some areas receiving over 3/4 of an inch, caused significant power outages and downed power lines, impacting roadways, especially overpasses.

Extreme Cold and Safety Precautions

• 🥶 Dangerous wind chills as low as -20° are expected, with an extreme cold warning likely for Kentucky, making tomorrow morning the worst.
• ⚠️ Being outside for even 10-30 minutes could result in hypothermia or frostbite; precautions are urged, including bringing pets indoors and avoiding extended outdoor time.
• 🏠 Over 137 warming centers are set up across the Commonwealth, including state parks, to provide safe, warm shelter for those without power.

Transportation and Road Conditions

• 🚗 Roadways remain slick, and interstates, while making progress, require drivers to slow down due to dangerous conditions.
• 🚧 Transportation crews are working to keep priority routes passable for emergency responders, with nearly 1,500 trucks and additional contractors deployed.
• ⚠️ A jackknifed semi has blocked southbound I-75 near the Clay's Ferry Bridge, and drivers are advised to expect unexpected conditions like black ice and fallen debris.

Ongoing Challenges and Public Guidance

• 📞 The unmet needs line has received 114 calls, and resources are being reallocated to the hardest-hit areas.
• ⚠️ Public is urged to continue avoiding travel if possible, stay home, and stay safe, especially with extreme cold expected.
• ❤️ Residents are encouraged to check on neighbors and be mindful of the dangers of shoveling heavy, icy snow, as several fatalities have been linked to this activity in the past.
• 🗓️ Updates will be provided, with an evaluation of roads for Tuesday morning commutes, which are expected to be icy.