Thursday, January 7, 2010

Snow and Roads Report

Snow accumulations across the western Kentucky region range from just less than an inch to just over an inch in most places. The snowfall was less than expected and most major travel routes are passable and in good condition. Backroads are snow covered.

In Crittenden County, there have been no accidents reported. State crews started plowing roads at 2:30 a.m., and city crews were out at 5 a.m. Most roads and streets are in good condition.

Highway conditions range from wet pavement to snow covered. Busier routes such as parkways and interstates are mainly clear of snow in the driving lane with passing lanes varying from clear to partly covered.

There are some reports of crashes around bridges and overpasses. With highways in somewhat better condition than expected this morning, motorists have tended to become over-confident and start driving faster than appropriate for weather conditions. That has led to a number of crashes.

There are also some reports across the western half of the state of drivers sliding into intersections. State and local highway crews are out salting ramps that have also been reported as trouble spots.

Motorists are advised to use extra caution on bridges and overpasses, as well as exposed hills and curves that are likely trouble spots. Highway crews are spending some extra time on those potential trouble areas, but with dropping temperatures during the day reducing the impact of salt slick spots are likely to continue to develop through the day.