Mayor Craig Greenberg declared a state of emergency for Jefferson County during a news conference Saturday as a winter storm capable of bringing 6-10 inches of snow and up to 0.75 inches of ice inches closer to the region.
The declaration will eliminate barriers for Louisville Metro Government agencies to access and deploy resources meant to better serve the community in an emergency situation, Greenberg said.
The announcement came hours after Gov. Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency for Kentucky.
Greenberg made the declaration during a conference attended by several local officials from government agencies who echoed reassurances that the city is prepared to overcome the winter storm. The storm is expected to start early Sunday morning and continue well into Monday.
Mayor Craig Greenberg declared a state of emergency for Louisville Saturday ahead of a winter storm predicted to hit Sunday morning.
Two temporary warming centers will open amid the storm to serve the public seeking relief from the frigid, icy weather. They are located at:
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Hope International AOH Church of God, 2330 Algonquin Parkway — Open starting Sunday
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Exodus Family Ministries, 4205 Cane Run Road — Open starting Monday
Louisville Free Public Library branches and Neighborhood Place facilities will also be open to the public, Greenberg said.
Several local shelters serving the unhoused population will participate in White Flag efforts, meaning anyone in need of shelter during the White Flag period will be assisted, Greenberg said. Participating shelters include the Salvation Army and Wayside Christian Mission.
The Transit Authority of River City will provide free bus fares to those trying to get to a homeless shelter or warming center.
Officials urged residents to prepare before the storm by charging phones, fueling vehicles and compiling provisions like food, water and alternative light and heat sources.
Corey Robinson, a Louisville Metro Police assistant chief, said high call volume for service and hazardous road conditions could delay response times. He warned that urgent calls for help — like those reporting injuries — will take precedent over others and asked for the community’s patience.
In the event LMPD is overwhelmed with runs, the force is prepared to refer callers to Kentucky State Police, who will help cover shortages, Robinson said.
Metro Public Works Director Jennifer Caummisar-Kern said the Louisville Metro Snow Team — made up of roughly 200 workers — will work “12-hour shifts for as long as they need to” in order to treat the county’s 110 snow routes. While the efforts are in the name of public safety, officials advised residents to avoid traveling.
“Please stay home. If you do go out, be careful. If you’re at home, be careful and be informed of what’s going on and look out for others,” Greenberg said.
Contact reporter Killian Baarlaer at kbaarlaer@gannett.com or @bkillian72 on X.
This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Mayor Greenberg declares state of emergency for Jefferson County