Heavy Rain and Windy Weather Ahead

Emily Fay

September 26, 2024

Lexington will experience weather from the leftovers of Hurricane Helene this weekend. Heavy rain and windy conditions will start tonight and continue into Friday evening. The risk of thunderstorms cannot be ruled out. If you have been putting off getting new windshield wipers, it’s a good time to replace them. Read these tips on preparing for and traveling in the incoming weather.

Wind

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Lousiville has issued a Wind Advisory for Lexington from 7:00 a.m. Friday, September 27, to 2:00 a.m. Saturday, September 28. Lexington is expected to see wind gusts up to 50 mph. Secure loose outdoor items that high winds can easily move. This includes trash cans, lawn furniture, outdoor decor, and trampolines. If you have a trampoline, turn it upside down and weigh it down to prevent it from flying away.

• Never drive over or touch downed power lines. Avoid touching anything that may be in contact with them. Contact your local electric company to report downed lines.
• If you drive a high-profile vehicle, like an SVU or truck, use extra caution when traveling. Wind gusts can move these taller vehicles more quickly than smaller ones. Watch out for other drivers impacted by the wind.

High Wind Driving Tips

• Plan and leave extra time to reach your destination. Travel may take longer as you need to drive more slowly.
• Always wear your seatbelt.
• Slow down and turn on your headlights.
• Keep your hands firmly on the wheel.
• Be aware and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles near you. Watch for high-profile vehicles (RVs, trucks, busses, trailers) as they can swing out in sudden wind gusts.
• Use extra caution in a high-profile vehicle, such as trucks, vans, or SUVs, or when towing a trailer. These vehicles are more likely to be pushed or flipped by high winds.
• Watch for objects that could potentially blow into the roadway. During strong winds, tree limbs may break, and/or other debris may come loose.
• If winds are severe enough to prevent safe driving, pull over into a safe parking area and stop. Make sure you are away from trees, power lines, or other tall objects that could fall onto your vehicle.

Heavy Rain

Lexington will experience rain tonight and throughout Friday. Between Thursday and Friday night, expect totals of 3 inches of rain. The heaviest rain is expected to fall on Friday morning.

• It is possible to hydroplane when driving in heavy rain. Remember to keep both hands on the wheel and stay calm. Before heading out in the morning, check out these Tips for Driving in the Rain.
• Heavy rain can impact storm drains and temporarily cause pooling water or isolated street flooding. Avoid these areas and go around the water.
• DO NOT DRIVE THROUGH RUNNING WATER ACROSS A ROADWAY. It doesn’t take much water to wash away or move your car or truck into a stream. As little as six inches of water can float a vehicle out of your control. It’s nearly impossible to guess how much water is running across a road, especially in low visibility conditions or at night. Remember: TURN AROUND – DON’T DROWN.