Lexington mayor declares state of emergency ahead of major winter storm
LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton has declared a local state of emergency as a significant winter storm is expected to move into the Bluegrass, bringing hazardous travel conditions and dangerously cold temperatures.
The declaration allows the city to fully activate its Emergency Operations Center and place public safety divisions on 24-hour schedules through Tuesday morning. City officials say the goal is to mobilize resources quickly and keep residents safe as the storm moves in.
“This emergency declaration will allow us to take the necessary steps to help our residents handle the weather we are expecting,” Gorton said.
As part of the declaration, a snow emergency is now in effect, which bans parking on snow emergency routes — major streets marked with signage throughout the city. Officials say keeping those routes clear will allow street crews and first responders to operate more safely and efficiently.
“If residents do not park along Snow Emergency Routes, our street crews will be able to clear roads more effectively, and our first responders will be able to respond more safely,” Gorton said.
City leaders are urging anyone who can stay home to do so, especially during the worst of the storm.
City crews and first responders preparing
The Division of Streets and Roads says crews are continuing to pre-treat roads and produce brine ahead of the storm. Director Rob Allen said the city has plans for additional contract help, with early focus on downtown streets and water treatment facilities. Staff has been placed on alternating 12-hour shifts.
Police Chief Lawrence Weathers said officers are on standby for recall throughout the weekend and reminded residents to be prepared if travel is unavoidable — including having a full tank of gas, water, snacks, and warm clothing in vehicles. Police also ask residents not to call 911 for road condition updates; non-emergency concerns should be directed to (859) 258-3600.
The Lexington Fire Department has increased staffing and placed extra personnel and equipment on standby. Fire officials are also urging residents to use caution with space heaters, keeping them at least three feet away from anything flammable and never leaving them unattended.
Support for vulnerable residents
The Office of Homelessness Prevention and Intervention has extended its Emergency Winter Weather Plan through Monday, January 26, with the possibility of further extensions. The plan includes expanded outreach, increased shelter access, and free Lextran rides to shelters.
The Catholic Action Center will operate a warming center at the Mother Teresa Shelter on Goodwin Drive from Saturday through Tuesday for adults without shelter.
Fayette County Sheriff Kathy Witt has also activated the Winter Care Program, which provides transportation for healthcare workers and patients, prescription pickups, and welfare checks for vulnerable residents.
Free parking and closures
To help keep streets clear, LexPark is offering free parking in several downtown garages through Tuesday morning, including the Transit Center, Helix, Courthouse, and Victorian Square garages.
Several Lexington Parks and Recreation facilities will be closed this weekend, including community centers, golf courses, Raven Run, McConnell Springs, and multiple scheduled programs.
City officials say updates will continue as conditions change. Residents are encouraged to monitor official updates and prepare early.
Weather-related updates are available at lexingtonky.gov/snowupdates.
