Utility and water companies in Kentucky prepared for ice, freezing temperatures

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Louisville Gas & Electric said 1,000 field workers are standing by to help customers who may experience power outages.

LG&E said it has been working throughout the year to prepare for winter weather situations, aiming to prevent outages and minimize how long the power is knocked out.

"Our crews have been here before," said Drew Gardner with LG&E. "They know what we're up against in these situations."

Garner said the system handles snow pretty well, but wind and ice cause the most issues. But LG&E made upgrades to its infrastructure to make the grid stronger and withstand higher winds and a larger amount of ice.

The company also installed advanced meters that immediately let field workers know where outages are and automated reclosers that reroute power around outages to quickly restore power to some customers.

"We just ask that our customers also prepare," Gardner said.

Crews from the Louisville Water Company are also ready to repair any broken water mains throughout the city. Company spokesperson Kelley Dearing Smith said people should take precautions at home.