Kentucky Emergency Management Assisting Local Emergency Crews in Winter Storm

The winter storm we are experiencing is no joke. As the day goes on, the roads continue to worsten - especially in Kentucky. Crews are responding to multiple accidents as a sheet of ice is covering roadways.

In response, the Kentucky Emergency Management activated its State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) at a Level 4 at midnight (this morning), which according to our news partner Eyewitness News 25, "consists of personnel monitoring the weather system."

Michael E. Dossett, director of KYEM, stated “Our primary mission is to support our counties, their responders and the citizens of the Commonwealth. By being proactive and activating our State Emergency Operations Center, it allows us to quickly and efficiently respond their needs.” Dossett continued “A reminder, please give all emergency vehicles a wide birth as they will be out in force during this storm event.”

This is NOT the declaration of a State of Emergency. A State of Emergency, as defined by the NJ Operations of Emergency Management, "The Governor declares a State of Emergency when he/she believes a disaster has occurred or may be imminent that is severe enough to require State aid to supplement local resources in preventing or alleviating damages, loss, hardship or suffering. This declaration authorizes the Governor to speed State agency assistance to communities in need. It enables him to make resources immediately available to rescue, evacuate, shelter, provide essential commodities (i.e., heating fuel, food etc.) and quell disturbances in affected localities.It may also position the State to seek federal assistance when the scope of the event exceeds the State's resources."

There is no law that states businesses must close in the event of a State of Emergency.

We'll keep you updated as this storm progresses.