City, County officials prepare for Winter weather

Barbourville City Officials meeting with Knox  County Emergency Management Director Mike Taylor, Wednesday, January 21, to determine game plan ahead of the weekend's potential winter storm.  More information to follow. 

Following a special-called meeting held at 5:00 p.m., Josh Callahan from Barbourville Utilities states that while it is  difficult to have an accurate measurement on the snow forecast, he and his team plan to "prepare for the worst." Callahan stated there will be individuals keeping watch of the water plant at all times to ensure it is running, and they can store more than one million gallons of water within the plant. In the event they should run dry, Callahan added that they are permitted to obtain water from the river. While Callahan states he does not see the need for a Boil Water Advisory in the event of obtaining water from the river, he will be sure to keep all locals and officials up to date.  

Mike Taylor, Director of the Knox County Emergency Management, states that there will be a warming station, possibly held at the Knox County Courthouse or Barbourville Fire Department. There will be an exact location in the following updates if needed. At the time of the report, there are known to be 12 ambulances and a majority of four-wheel drive police units that can withstand the harsh conditions in the event of emergency transportation.

Lastly, city officials urge locals to stay updated and, in case of an emergency, contact emergency services, and under no circumstances, do not run a generator within your home or garage. 

A more detailed and accurate update will be presented after 5:00 p.m. on Friday, January 23, as officials receive more accurate updates and warnings for the upcoming weather.