HOPKINSVILLE, Ky. – (CLARKSVILLENOW) – Winter Storm Gia is moving toward Kentucky and will most likely impact driving conditions for drivers this weekend.

Christian, Todd, and Trigg Counties could all potentially be affected by the winter storm.

The National Weather Service says a storm system will bring the potential for light accumulating snow to parts of Kentucky late Friday afternoon into the night. While the heaviest snow is forecast further north, a dusting up to an inch of snow is possible this evening in and around Hopkinsville.

RELATED: Forecast calls for chance of snow this weekend in Clarksville

While significant travel issues are not expected in this area, patchy slick spots could develop, especially on elevated surfaces and untreated roads. Precipitation across much of this area is forecast to change over to rain after midnight tonight, which should help to melt any accumulated snow.

If you must travel tonight, pay attention to road conditions and be prepared to adjust your travel plans if needed.

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet crews across the state are pretreating roads today in advance of expected snow and freezing rain.

“This storm has already spread snow, sleet and ice across the country and will likely provide challenging conditions here in the Commonwealth,” Kentucky State Police (KSP) spokesman Sergeant Josh Lawson said. “We are taking this opportunity to remind drivers of simple safety tips they can use as we transition into this winter weather season.”

To meet the challenges of the upcoming winter driving season, KSP reminds drivers to plan ahead, make sure all passengers are properly restrained, drive defensively and ensure their vehicle is properly maintained to handle the effects of cold temperatures.

Other safe winter travel tips include:

• Refrain from calling 911 for road or weather conditions due to high call volume. Telecommunicators need the lines open to assist callers who have emergencies.
• Reduce speed in wintery conditions.
• Leave early – allow more travel time; expect delays.
• Increase distance between vehicles – the ability to stop is significantly affected on snow covered or icy roadways
• Clear all windows on your vehicle prior to travel – having unobstructed vision is vital to avoid running off of the road or having a collision.
• Ensure your windshield washer fluid is full and that you use an anti-ice solution.
• Turn on your vehicle’s headlamps. Remove any dirt, mud or snow from all vehicle lights
• Use caution on bridges and overpasses as they are susceptible to freezing before roadways.
• Avoid using cruise control which can cause a vehicle’s wheels to continue turning on a slippery surface when speed needs to be decreased.
• Ensure your vehicle has a full tank of gas in the event you are stranded for an extended period of time.
• Charge your cellular phone prior to departure.
• Always dress warmly and keep a blanket in the vehicle.
• Carry a winter survival kit that includes items such as blankets, a first-aid kit, a can and waterproof matches (to melt snow for water), windshield scraper, booster cables, road maps, tool kit, bag of sand or cat litter (to pour on ice or snow for added traction), collapsible shovel, flashlight and extra batteries.

KSP is also requesting travelers to keep an eye out for stranded drivers. If you see or suspect that someone is stranded, contact KSP at 1-800-222-5555.

If you get stranded, staying in your vehicle is often the safest choice, says Lawson, who offers these added tips:

• Tie a brightly colored cloth to the antenna as a signal to rescuers.
• Move anything you need from the trunk into the passenger area.
• Wrap your entire body, including your head, in blankets, or extra clothing.
• Stay awake. You will be less vulnerable to cold-related health problems.
• Run the motor (and heater) for about 10 minutes per hour, opening one window slightly to let air in. Make sure that snow is not blocking the exhaust pipe as this will reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
• As you sit, keep moving your arms and legs to improve your circulation and stay warmer.
• Do not eat un-melted snow. It will lower your body temperature.

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