Below-freezing temperatures expected to cause black ice; motorists urged to limit travel.
SOMERSET, Ky. (Jan. 27, 2026) – Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) District 8 highway crews continue active plowing and treating operations across the district as frigid temperatures create ongoing travel hazards. While sunshine throughout the day helped activate salt and allowed for some melting, temperatures remain well below freezing, and wet roadways are expected to refreeze quickly after sunset.
As of 5 p.m. Tuesday, priority A and B routes—including interstates, parkways, and major highways—are mostly clear, though some slush remains in isolated locations. Crews have shifted focus to priority C routes and report improving conditions along those roadways.
With extremely low temperatures expected overnight, refreezing is likely and black ice may develop, particularly on roads that received limited sunlight today. Motorists should be aware that road conditions can vary significantly, and some surfaces may appear clear while containing hidden patches of ice.
As temperatures drop, the effectiveness of salt and other de-icing materials will be reduced due to cold pavement conditions. Drivers should expect slick roads overnight and during the Wednesday morning commute, including on previously treated routes. Prolonged cold weather is expected through the weekend, and it may take several days for crews to fully clear all roadways.
KYTC strongly encourages motorists to avoid travel if possible. If travel is necessary, drivers should slow down, increase following distance, and allow extra time to reach their destination. 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 it is safe to do so.
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)