STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARED FOR JACKSON COUNTY

Friday January 23, 2026 1:00pm
Press Release

A major winter storm is set to impact the region beginning Saturday January 24, 2026. At this time, the forecast is debatable as to precipitation amounts and types, with most recent indications being approximately 8” of snow and approximately .5” of ice (more or less depending on track). Bitter cold is also a major threat. The storm is comparable to the 2009 ice storm.
Jackson County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is activating on Saturday morning at 08:00am to monitor the storm as it occurs. Emergency Management will open the EOC to monitor the status of utilities, mainly power outages. In the event of a large and prolonged power outage, the EOC will coordinate opening shelter(s).

As of this time, Jackson County has declared a Local State of Emergency in anticipation of the storms impacts. Jackson Emergency Management has attended in person and virtual meetings with the National Weather Service (NWS Jackson Office), Kentucky Emergency Management (KYEM), County and State Road departments, local officials, first responders including law enforcement, EMS, and fire, and EOC staff. First responders are prepared to augment the road crews with tree debris removal if precipitation favors ice over snow. We also have plans in place to transport critical care workers (healthcare workers) to the county line if needed due to hazardous travel. We have spoken with our state partners at KYEM about sheltering if it becomes necessary.

The role of the Jackson County EOC during the storm will be to coordinate between local, state, and federal partners if needed to stand up shelters, open roads, obtain critical supplies, and support the public through the historic storm. Jackson County EMS will be utilizing 4x4 SUV’s for patient access. We will rely heavily on our volunteer firefighters and police officers as well for patient access and care.

It is our recommendation that our citizens make every last minute preparation now. Stockpile supplies, including supplemental oxygen equipment and cylinders sufficient for several days, food, water, fuel sources for heat (firewood, propane, kerosene), and be prepared in case of a prolonged power outage. Travel is not advised. If travel is absolutely necessary, dress in case you become stranded. Prepare a bag with sufficient supplies (food, water, extra clothing, flashlight) in case.

Storms are incredibly taxing on the 911 system. In the event of an emergency, dial 911 by all means. An emergency is a life-threatening occurrence requiring immediate police, fire, or EMS assistance. For non-emergent calls and inquiries, utilize the Jackson County Dispatch non-emergency line, 606-287-9979 or the Jackson County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) 606-287-3838. It is our mission to render aid to any in need regardless of weather.

Lastly, be patient. Due to the anticipated hazardous travel conditions, response times could be considerably delayed. Be patient with our first responders, 911, volunteers, EOC staff, firefighters, and EMS. Be patient with our utility workers and road crews as this storm will be incredibly demanding on all.

Monitor local weather and the Jackson County Emergency Management Facebook page for regular updates as information becomes available. Thank you for your patience and early preparation.