Published: December 19, 2009 07:33 pm      

Beshear declares state of emergency after winter storm

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Gov. Steve Beshear on Saturday declared a state of emergency in Kentucky in the wake of a winter storm that knocked out power to 106,000 customers.

The Commonwealth Emergency Operations Center was activated to coordinate the response to the storm, including opening shelters, rescuing stranded motorists and clearing roads.

"State government is moving quickly to assist those in need of help from these powerful storms," Beshear said in a release. "Though we often wish for a white Christmas, in reality these storms can put Kentuckians in danger."

Beshear's declaration frees up money to pay for out-of-state utility crews to help restore power, gives authority to mobilize National Guard personnel and equipment and allows officials to restrict access to public roadways in the interest of public safety.

Some eastern counties received up to a foot of snow overnight. National Weather Service meteorologist Brian Schoettmer in Jackson said higher elevations were still in line to see up to another 2 inches Saturday. But he said the snow is turning into rain for most of the affected area.

"The worst is over by far," he said.

Road crews were focusing their efforts on the counties along and east of Interstate 75, according to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. Downed trees or power lines caused road closures in Knott, Pike and Bell counties.

Beshear spoke with officials in the hardest-hit counties on Saturday and planned to visit the most affected areas on Sunday.

"If you do not have to travel, stay in," Beshear said. "If you must travel, use caution and drive slow, maintaining extra stopping distance."