LEXINGTON, Ky. — The City of Lexington is preparing for another round of winter weather, including snow and cold temperatures. 

What You Need To Know

  • The City of Lexington is preparing for more winter weather, including snow and cold temperatures 

  • Mayor Linda Gorton encouraged residents to check in on their neighbors, the elderly and protect their pets 

  • Gorton also said it is important for residents to stay off the roads, if possible, and limit their time outdoors 

  • Both the police and fire departments are preparing to respond to any necessary emergencies 

"Our top priority is to keep our residents safe and warm," Mayor Linda Gorton said. "We’re encouraging our residents to stay off the roads if possible and to limit your time outside.” 

Gorton also urged residents to "check on your neighbors, the elderly and protect your pets from the bitter cold," as representatives from the following city departments shared their weather plans Thursday:

Division of Streets and Roads:

Crews from the Division of Streets and Roads are prepared to work 12-hour shifts, said Nancy Albright, commissioner of environmental quality and public works. With help from water quality employees, crews from the division prepared Lexington's streets with a brine and beet mixture Thursday morning. Derived from beets, Beet Heet helps salt work at a lower temperature, keeping salt on the pavement for longer periods. 

Lexington Police:

Chief Lawrence Weathers said members of the Lexington Police Department are preparing to make sure the community's needs are met, including getting equipment ready. Weathers also offered some tips for drivers, including allowing more time to get to their destinations, increasing their following distance and putting their vehicles in a lower gear for better traction. 

Lexington Fire:

The Fire Department is working to winterize pumps to respond to any necessary emergencies, along with rotating crews frequently on extended responses. Allowing water faucets to drip as a preventative measure for pipes helps reduce the risk of freezing, said Fire Chief Jason Wells. 

Waste Management:

Head and toe warmers have been issued to employees, and managers are encouraging frequent breaks from the cold weather. The division is staying on course for now; however, it will communicate any changes to the collection pickup schedule. 

Lexington Senior Center:

The Senior Center is not having instructor-led activities Thursday. All facilities are closed. 

Office of Homeless Prevention and Intervention:

The office has extended the activation of the city's Emergency Winter Weather Plan through next Monday morning, Jan. 22, said Homeless Prevention Manager Jeff Herron. It will continue monitoring conditions, along with outreach efforts to reach individuals and facilitate access to shelters.

The most commonly needed items are hats, gloves and toiletries, Herron said, and donations should be coordinated directly with providers. More information can be found on the Lex End Homelessness Facebook page. 

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