Lexington braces for dangerous icy roads as temperatures plunge

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – Lexington is dealing with the messy aftermath of Friday’s winter storm, which dropped several inches of snow overnight and left many roads slushy and slick for the morning commute. Now, with temperatures falling sharply, city officials warn that conditions will worsen as wet surfaces freeze and create widespread icy hazards.

Schools were closed Thursday to keep students and staff safe, and the City of Lexington activated its Winter Storm Emergency Winter Weather Plan to help protect people experiencing homelessness from the frigid temperatures expected through the weekend.

While the snowfall tapered off during the day, the brief improvement won’t last. Forecasters say temperatures will drop into dangerous territory overnight, raising the risk of black ice on roads across the city.

Snowplows and treatment crews have been out since early morning, but officials continue urging drivers to stay home if possible—especially after sunset.

The city’s homeless outreach efforts have also intensified. Ginny Ramsey with the Catholic Action Center, who is helping coordinate sheltering efforts, says the coming cold could be deadly for unsheltered residents.

“Everybody is working as hard as possible to get folks into shelter because of the impending very dangerous weather,” Ramsey said. “What’s coming up as far as temperatures will be unsurvivable for a lot of folks.”

Most shelters are already at or near capacity, she said, but the city’s expanded emergency plan will continue through Monday. Outreach teams are actively checking on people, offering transportation and helping connect anyone in need to available beds.

Ramsey is asking the community to be vigilant.

“If you see someone who seems to be unsheltered, you can call the non-emergency number and the police will go check on them to be sure they are safe,” she said. “That is key right now — to be sure people will have shelter Saturday night and Sunday night.”

City officials say road conditions will likely deteriorate quickly Thursday evening as temperatures plunge, and they encourage residents to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.