FRANKFORT, Ky. (WAVE) – Governor Andy Beshear said the winter storm may have taken a deadly toll on Kentucky.
During his January 26 news briefing, Beshear said three deaths in Kentucky are being investigated to determine if they’re the result of the winter storm. He didn’t go into details about the deaths and said the causes have not been confirmed yet.
During a morning update, the governor pointed out that Central and Southern Kentucky got lot of ice which brought down tree branches and powerlines. Approximately 47,000 utility customers are still without power today. Crews hope to have those customers restored by tomorrow.
The resounding message Beshear had is for people not to drive and to stay home if you can.
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet said snowplows are out in full force across the commonwealth. The conditions on interstate highways range from wet to snowpacked. Side roads and neighborhoods are still rough.
Officials point out when traffic increases, so do the risk of crashes. That’s why Gov. Beshear wants Kentuckians to stay off the roads – at least for today – so they can make sure conditions are better for drivers tomorrow.
“If you are going to commute tomorrow morning, give yourself at least double the amount of time,” Beshear said. “Think about what major roads you can take as opposed to minor roads. Take a really good look at your neighborhood and where you live and if you can get out of that area.”
To help those drivers heading out Tuesday morning, Beshear said he’ll hold another briefing before the morning commute.
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