Frigid temperatures cause refreezing; motorists urged to stay off roads.
SOMERSET, Ky. (Jan. 26, 2026) – Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) District 8 highway crews continue active plowing and treating operations across the district. Sunshine during the day has helped activate salt and promote some melting; however, temperatures remain well below freezing, and wet roadways are expected to refreeze quickly after sunset.
As of 5 p.m. Monday, priority A and B routes—including interstates, parkways, and major highways—are passable; however, slush remains in some locations. Rural roadways, designated as priority C routes, may remain snow-covered as crews continue plowing and grading operations.
KYTC strongly encourages motorists to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. If travel cannot be avoided, drivers should reduce speed, increase following distance, use major routes when possible, and carry an emergency car kit. Motorists are reminded to give snowplows plenty of space and never pass a plow on the shoulder. Kentucky’s Quick Clearance Law requires vehicles involved in non-injury crashes to move to the shoulder when possible.
In addition to snow and ice removal, crews have responded to multiple downed trees and power lines across the district. These hazards have restricted access and prevented the reopening of some routes until utility companies can safely clear the lines. As of 5 p.m., the following roadways remain blocked:
Clinton County:
• KY 1266 at mile point 3 (Grider Hill)
Pulaski County:
• KY 3189 at mile point 0.5
• KY 769 at mile point 0.5
• KY 804 at mile point 0.5
• KY 1003 at mile point 2
• KY 1676 at mile point 5.7
KYTC reminds the public to use extreme caution around downed power lines. Do not attempt to move lines or debris and avoid contact with anything touching a downed line, including vehicles or tree branches. Any downed power lines should be reported directly to the local utility company.
Motorists should not call 911 for road condition information. Current traffic and roadway conditions are available at GoKY.ky.gov.
KYTC District 8 is responsible for maintaining state highways in Adair, Casey, Clinton, Cumberland, Lincoln, McCreary, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Russell, and Wayne counties.
(Amber Hale – Kentucky Transportation Cabinet District 8)