Lexington officials urge caution as winter storm approaches; roads already being pre-treated

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – With winter weather moving into the Commonwealth, Mayor Linda Gorton and city officials are urging residents to prepare for hazardous conditions overnight and into Friday morning.

During a briefing Thursday, the mayor said Streets & Roads crews have already begun pre-treating city streets ahead of the incoming storm.

Officials noted that both a Winter Storm Warning and a Winter Weather Advisory will go into effect at 7 p.m. and remain active through Friday morning.

Lexington Police Chief Lawrence Weathers reminded drivers to slow down, prepare their vehicles, and give themselves extra time and space on the roads.

“If you’re going out, make sure you have enough gas in your car,” Weathers said. “We’ll be patrolling the interstates, watching out for people, but make sure you keep that gas in your car. Slow down. The roads are being treated, but there can still be slick spots out there. So please slow down, and please increase your distance.”

In anticipation of the bitter cold, the Office of Homelessness Prevention and Intervention has also opened a temporary winter shelter at 1306 Versailles Road for anyone who needs a safe place to stay.