Essential Winter Storm Safety Guide Before the Storm Hits Kentucky

With a Winter Storm Warning in effect for western Kentucky, many of us are getting ready for a rough weekend. To help, I’ve pulled together a list of local resources that may be useful before and during the storm.

Kenergy Updates & Outage Information

Always assume a downed power line is energized and dangerous. Do not approach it. To report a downed power line or a power outage, call 800-844-4832. You can view Kenergy’s current outage map here: http://stormcenter.kenergycorp.com Power outages across all western Kentucky counties can be checked 24/7 HERE. If conditions worsen, avoid unnecessary travel. Roads may be hazardous, and crews will be working to repair electrical lines throughout the region.

Staying safe after a power outage is essential, especially if the outage is prolonged. Here are some important safety tips to follow:

OMU Advantage

Register now for OMU’s free interactive text alert service to report outages by text and receive updates right to your phone.

Sign up at https://omu.org/text-alerts/

The OMU text message system will respond to the following keywords:
• Signup – Opt into the texting service
• Quit – Opt out of the texting service
• Out – Report an outage at your location
• Status – Check if the system is aware of an outage at your location
• Help – Access the Help menu

Travel Updates

Crews are continuing to clear roadways across western Kentucky. Even if you come across stretches of bare pavement, avoid the temptation to speed up. Ice remains a major concern due to packed snow, and falling trees and power lines caused by ice buildup are creating additional hazards. Slow down, stay alert, and use extra caution if you have to be on the roads. For the latest Kentucky traffic alerts, construction updates, and real-time roadway conditions, visit goky.ky.gov.

In several areas across western Kentucky, traffic signals are out of service because of power outages. Treat these intersections as four-way stops, watch for other drivers and pedestrians, and proceed carefully.

Road conditions in Indiana can be checked through the INDOT TrafficWise/511IN website (511in.org).

Emergency Car Kit Suggested Items for Drivers

First aid kit
Extra coat, gloves, and blankets or a sleeping bag
Non-perishable food and water
Baby formula, diapers, wipes
Flashlight with extra batteries
Portable phone chargers
Pet food, water, leash, bowl
Medications
Ice scraper and jumper cables
Shovel, and a bag of sand or litter

Daviess County Emergency Management Agency

Warming Shelters

Warming stations are available across western Kentucky when White Flag criteria are met. These locations offer a safe, warm place for anyone in need during periods of extreme cold. Check local updates for the nearest warming station and encourage anyone affected by the cold to use these resources.

In Daviess County, a White Flag event means an overnight emergency shelter is open to all men, women, and children. Hours: 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 a.m. (unless beds are available at another shelter) Daniel Pitino Shelter 501 Walnut Street Owensboro, KY 42301

Meals: Available at the Daniel Pitino Shelter during normal meal hours.

Transportation: Monday–Friday on White Flag nights, the Owensboro Transit System will provide free bus transportation to the Daniel Pitino Shelter between 4:00 and 6:00 p.m. Let the bus driver know you are traveling to the White Flag shelter. If you need information on warming centers near you, check with area churches and shelters, your local Emergency Management Agency, or your local dispatch center’s non-emergency number.

You can also contact Kentucky Emergency Management at 800-255-2587. Many of these locations open during extreme weather to provide warmth and a safe place to stay.

Stay informed and reach out to local resources if you or someone you know needs shelter or support during the cold.

Tri-State Closings

We’ve put together a running list of area businesses, schools, and organizations that are closed or delayed due to the winter storm. The guide is updated as information comes in, so check back often. Conditions and schedules can change quickly during severe weather. If you need to report a closing, please email us using a valid business email address. You may also send a link to a post from your business’s official social media page confirming the closure if a business email is not available.

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Download the WBKR App

Stay up to date with the latest weather alerts, closings, and community resources by downloading the WBKR app. We’ll continue sharing updates as conditions change to help keep you informed and safe throughout the storm.

Indoor Safety Tips

As temperatures drop, it’s important to take a few extra precautions indoors. Here are some winter safety tips to help protect you and your home.

By following these tips, you can stay safe, warm, and comfortable inside during winter storms and extreme cold.

Prevent Frostbite and Hypothermia

Extreme cold can be dangerous if you’re not prepared. Here are some simple steps you can take to help prevent frostbite and hypothermia.

By following these precautions and being aware of the symptoms of hypothermia and frostbite, you can help ensure your safety during cold weather and prevent dangerous cold-related illnesses.

Additional Tips for Staying Safe

Pet Safety: Keep pets indoors whenever possible, or make sure outdoor animals have proper shelter and access to food and water. Use hay. Not blankets.

Emergency Supplies: Stock up on flashlights, extra batteries, bottled water, non-perishable food, and a first-aid kit in case of power outages or other emergencies.

Carbon Monoxide Safety: Never use generators, grills, or other fuel-burning devices indoors. Make sure all heating equipment is properly vented.

Check on Neighbors: Reach out to elderly or vulnerable neighbors. Sometimes a quick check-in can make all the difference.

Staying prepared and looking out for others can help everyone get through the storm safely. Keep these tips handy, stay informed, and prioritize safety above all.