Traffic lights are out across Lexington, other parts of KY. How to navigate intersections
With more than 390,000 Kentuckians without power as of Saturday afternoon, many signalized intersections have gone dark.
A powerful storm, ripe with high winds, knocked out power for hundreds of thousands across the Bluegrass State Friday evening, and at least five people are dead as a result of the storm, Gov. Andy Beshear reports.
A Kentucky Utilities officials told the Herald-Leader it would be at least Sunday before the energy giant would have an estimated restoration time.
As of late Saturday afternoon, about 20 Lexington intersections were dark, city officials said, and power inverters were being used at 25 other signals. The city said the heads on about 100 signals were twisted, preventing drivers from seeing them.
Emergency officials, including the Lexington Police Department, urged people to avoid travel and stay off roads as they work to get traffic lights up and running.
If you must go out, here are some tips from LPD and others on how to safely navigate.
What to do at an intersection where the traffic light is out
If you arrive at an intersection to find the traffic light is out, LPD advises you treat the intersection as a four-way stop. This means wait your turn and proceed in the order each driver arrived at the intersection, as traffic permits. Be sure to stop completely.
If you find the light flashing yellow, you can proceed through the intersection with caution as traffic permits.
A flashing red lights is to be treated as a stop sign. Come to a complete stop and then proceed as traffic permits.
“We have officers out assisting with traffic and road hazards. Please obey all directions given by officers,” LPD said in a Friday Facebook post.
Other tips for driving when the power is out
It is important to remain cautious and alert when driving after a storm or under hazardous conditions. Here are some tips to help you arrive safely, including some from Edison International:
- Put your phone down. Keep your attention on the road so you can react as needed.
- Be extra cautious. It may be best to stop at an intersection even if you feel you have the right of way.
- Use your turn signal. Especially when traffic lights are not functioning, it is important to alert other drivers about your intentions.
- Look up alternate routes. Your usual route could be blocked by traffic, downed trees or toppled power lines.
- Carry emergency cash. If you are going out to grab a necessity, you may find card readers down at retailers.
- Don’t drive with a nearly-empty gas tank. Make sure there is adequate fuel in your vehicle to get you to and from your destination safely.
How to report a downed power line in Lexington
If you come across a downed line, including those blocking streets, LPD reminds you to not attempt to move it and keep a safe distance.
“Stay inside your vehicle, and do not drive over a fallen power line,” police advise.
You can report downed lines to directly to you power company or to the LPD at 859-258-3600.
This story was originally published March 4, 2023 at 12:25 PM.
