Lexington, KY, December 29, 2025
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) has issued a black ice warning for Lexington, KY, due to a significant drop in temperatures. With conditions expected to worsen, drivers face increased risks on the road as black ice forms on bridges and overpasses. KYTC emphasizes the importance of caution and preparedness during this winter weather, recommending that motorists travel only when necessary, ensure their vehicles are winterized, and stay informed about road conditions.
Lexington, KY: KYTC Issues Black Ice Warning Amid Freezing Temperatures
Lexington, KY – The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) has issued a warning for hazardous driving conditions due to the formation of black ice on roadways. This advisory comes as temperatures are expected to drop significantly, leading to freezing conditions that can make roads dangerously slick.
Black Ice Formation and Associated Risks
As temperatures fall, moisture on the roads can freeze, creating black ice—a thin, transparent layer of ice that is difficult to detect. Black ice often forms on bridges, overpasses, and ramps before it appears on regular road surfaces, posing a significant risk to drivers. Even previously treated roads can become hazardous under these conditions.
KYTC’s Preparedness and Response
In response to the anticipated freezing temperatures, KYTC District 7 crews and contractors are on alert and will report for duty as needed. The forecast predicts temperatures dropping from the 60s to the 20s overnight, accompanied by gusty winds up to 40 miles per hour. Snow is also expected to follow, further complicating driving conditions. KYTC emphasizes the importance of caution during these conditions and advises motorists to stay informed through official channels.
Safety Recommendations for Motorists
To ensure safety during winter weather, KYTC recommends the following precautions:
- Travel Only When Necessary: Limit travel during major snow events to essential trips.
- Vehicle Winterization: Ensure your vehicle is prepared for winter conditions by checking the battery, tire pressure, brakes, heater, defroster, headlights, and windshield wipers.
- Drive Cautiously: Reduce speed and increase following distance when driving on snow or ice-covered roads. Remember, it takes more time and distance to stop your vehicle in poor weather conditions, so brake early and slowly.
- Stay Informed: Monitor weather advisories and allow extra time for travel during routine commutes. Use resources like the GoKY app or visit goky.ky.gov to check traffic conditions before you travel.
- Be Aware of Black Ice: Slow down when approaching intersections, off-ramps, bridges, or shaded areas, as these are susceptible to black ice formation—a thin coating of clear ice that can form on the pavement surface and may be difficult to see.
- Maintain Safe Distance: Keep a safe distance from snowplows and other heavy highway equipment, and do not pass snowplows on the shoulder.
- Avoid Distractions: Eliminate distractions while driving, such as using a phone or eating, to maintain full attention on the road.
Emergency Preparedness
In case of emergencies, it’s advisable to have an emergency kit in your vehicle, including ice scrapers, jumper cables, blankets, a flashlight, cell phone charger, non-perishable snacks, and a first aid kit. Additionally, ensure your gas tank is at least two-thirds full to prevent fuel line freezing and to prepare for possible delays on the roadway.
Conclusion
As winter weather conditions develop, KYTC urges all motorists to exercise caution and stay informed. By taking these precautions, drivers can help ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road during the winter season.
What is black ice, and why is it dangerous?
Black ice is a thin, transparent layer of ice that forms on roadways, making it difficult to detect. It often forms on bridges, overpasses, and ramps before appearing on regular road surfaces, posing a significant risk to drivers.
What should I do if I encounter black ice while driving?
If you encounter black ice, remain calm, avoid sudden movements, and steer gently in the direction you want to go. Do not slam on the brakes; instead, ease off the accelerator and allow your vehicle to regain traction.
How can I prepare my vehicle for winter driving conditions?
Ensure your vehicle is winter-ready by checking the battery, tire pressure, brakes, heater, defroster, headlights, and windshield wipers. Keep your gas tank at least two-thirds full to prevent fuel line freezing and to prepare for possible delays on the roadway.
What items should I include in an emergency kit for winter driving?
An emergency kit for winter driving should include ice scrapers, jumper cables, blankets, a flashlight, cell phone charger, non-perishable snacks, and a first aid kit. Additionally, ensure your gas tank is at least two-thirds full to prevent fuel line freezing and to prepare for possible delays on the roadway.
How can I stay informed about road conditions during winter weather?
Stay informed about road conditions by monitoring weather advisories and using resources like the GoKY app or visiting goky.ky.gov to check traffic conditions before you travel. These tools provide real-time updates on road conditions and closures.
Key Features of the Advisory
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Black Ice Formation | Thin, transparent layer of ice forming on roadways, especially on bridges, overpasses, and ramps, making roads dangerously slick. |
| KYTC Preparedness | District 7 crews and contractors on alert, ready to respond as needed to address hazardous conditions. |
| Safety Recommendations | Travel only when necessary, ensure vehicle winterization, drive cautiously, stay informed, be aware of black ice, maintain safe distance, and avoid distractions. |
| Emergency Preparedness | Carry an emergency kit in your vehicle, including ice scrapers, jumper cables, blankets, a flashlight, cell phone charger, non-perishable snacks, and a first aid kit. |
| Conclusion | KYTC urges motorists to exercise caution and stay informed to ensure safety during winter weather conditions. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Lexington Community Bands Together for Boy Battling Cancer
Engage with ‘Trigger Warning’ at Black & Lit Book Club
Lexington Monitors Road Conditions Amid Winter Weather
Local Brewery Shutters Flagship Taproom: A Shift in Strategy
LRS 102 Deadman’s Ball Returns to Waverly Hills Sanatorium
Communities in Western North Carolina Recovering from Hurricane Helene
Fayette County, Kentucky Faces $16 Million Budget Shortfall Amid Legal Controversy
Texas Republicans Pursue Fleeing Democrats Amid Redistricting Crisis
Unseasonably Low August Temperatures Hit Lexington, Kentucky
Kentucky Launches Online Safety Training for Children
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
