Lexington is currently under a winter storm watch, which will remain in effect from late Friday night through Monday morning, according to the National Weather Service.

The Central Kentucky area can expect a heavy precipitation mix, including snow and ice.

The NWS said travel could be very difficult to impossible. Enter: The City of Lexington’s snow and ice control plan.

City streets

Snow removal on city streets begins with prioritization. Think: traffic volume based on public transportation, emergency services and schools. The city will pretreat and position plows in these areas accordingly.

When a storm hits and plows begin their work, it follows a ranking system. Rank one includes major roads in and out of the city, which impact a large number of drivers, including Main Street, Harrodsburg Road, and Newtown Pike. Rank five, on the other hand, may be visible from your window. They are smaller, secondary streets — city-maintained neighborhood roads that often include school bus routes. Crews address them as conditions require.

Not sure where you rank? Use the city’s snow removal map to find your street.

Sidewalks

There is a similar ranking system for city-maintained sidewalks, but residents and businesses must clear sidewalks once snow exceeds four inches and the adjacent street has been plowed. The mayor may temporarily suspend the requirement during severe weather.

Shoveling snow can be dangerous, especially for those over age 55. Consider reviewing these tips from UK HealthCare before grabbing your shovel.

Helpful reminders

Don’t park along ranked streets, as it slows the plowing process.
If the mayor declares a snow emergency and your car is parked along a snow emergency route, it may be relocated. Cars can be retrieved by calling the police reports desk at 859-258-3563. This also applies to stalled vehicles on main roads.
Consider clearing the sidewalk for a neighbor who is unable to do so.
Check the real-time traffic ticker for traffic reports before travel.
Contact LexCall at 311 for any questions + comments about snow and ice removal. They will be open 24 hours when the snow removal team is deployed. You an also submit a service request form.

The city has provided more snow and ice tips, including final preparations and what to do during an ice storm.