Winter weather caused severe flooding throughout the state, from Louisville to eastern Kentucky. | Photo via @pikevillepride
Governor Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency in preparation for a four-day weather event, which began last night. Kentuckians face possible tornadoes, hail, flooding, and strong winds during this spring storm.
We’ve gathered the resources you need to safely weather this dangerously wet weekend.
What it means
When the governor declares a state of emergency, the Kentucky National Guard is activated and state funding is made available for relief + response efforts. Transportation may be restricted — think: road closures and detours.
The state of emergency also prohibits price gouging. If you suspect any price gouging — a business upping prices to take advantage of the emergency — you can report it online.
Be Informed
Our Department of Emergency Management’s (DEM) website, Be Ready Lexington, is every Lexingtonians first step for emergency preparedness. Here are three easy ways the DEM helps you stay up-to-date with the latest information during a weather emergency:
Sign up for the LEXALERTS notification system to receive emergency updates via email, text, and voice message.
This list explains the meaning of outdoor sirens and how to correctly respond to them.
The Be Ready Lexington app will help you notify family that you are safe, find emergency shelter, and make a personalized plan for next time.
Teen Howl Poetry Series | 5:30-7 p.m. | Third Street Stuff | Price of purchase | Those under 21 are invited to hear from KY poet Lynnell Edwards and Howler of the Month Ryan Eby.
Disney On Ice presents “Mickey’s Search Party” | Thursday, April 3-Sunday, April 6 | Times vary | Rupp Arena | $23.50+ | Join Mickey Mouse, Coco, Moana, Elsa, and other familiar faces for an immersive adventure with skating, stunts, and high-flying acrobatics.
Friday, April 4
Spring Meet | Friday, April 4-Friday, April 25 | 11 a.m.-6 p.m. | Keeneland | $7+ | Check the website for weather updates then place your bets on a great time at this true Lexington tradition including world class horse racing, festive food, delicious drinks, and live music on The Hill.
Saturday, April 5
Hands-On Hang-Out | 12-4 p.m. | Wise Bird Cider | Price of purchase | The Living Arts & Science Center hosts family-friendly guided crafts + educational activities — plus, 10% of cider sales benefit the nonprofit.
Johnbern Thomas and Special Guests | 7-9 p.m. | Pam Miller Downtown Arts Center | $30 | Enjoy an evening of lively Haitian-infused jazz music led by the esteemed drummer with guest musicians on the piano, saxophone, and violin.
Tango Sundays | 4-5:15 p.m. | The Salsa Center Dance Studio | $20+ | It does not take two to tango at this beginners lesson, no partner or experience necessary.
I like to ride my bicycle. The North Lexington Family YMCA wants to take you on a spin around all 11 miles of the Legacy Trail. Members can enjoy special pricing on rentable bikes to enjoy the spring bloom, beginning tomorrow, April 4.
Eat
Just in time for the Spring Meet, Bella Notte has unveiled its seasonal menu, featuring a Woodford Reserve Mango Mint Julep. Secure your reservation today for a “fresh, local + seasonal” feast.
Traffic
Snap that seatbelt, and pack your license + registration if you want to avoid springing into a ticket this month. Kentucky State Police are setting up safety checkpoints at 12 Fayette County locations to promote KY traffic laws throughout April. (FOX56)
State
Speaking of driver’s licenses, REAL ID enforcement goes into effect Wednesday, May 7. City Editor Sam’s pro-tips for visiting a regional license office have everything you need to know for a successful trip. (LEX18)
Sports
The Georgetown Tigers are burning bright with the launch of three new athletics programs — men’s and women’s wrestling teams, and an esports team. Get to know new head coaches Frank James, Angela Vitiritti, and Alyssa Tinker.
Cause
Jimmy Williams, a Lexington nurse at UK Healthcare, is headed to Kyiv to provide medical support to victims of the war in Ukraine. You can contribute to Williams’s May 5-18 trip by making a donation to cover food, lodging + medical supplies. (LEX18)
Community
Ready to dive into a story that sparks conversation + connection? Happiness Falls by Angie Kim is this year’s pick for Lexington Public Library’s Community Reads. Join the city-wide book club now through May, culminating in a book talk with the author on Wednesday, May 31. Mark your calendar + reserve your copy.*
Racehorse ownership can be costly — but it doesn’t have to be. Enter: Pocket Aces Racing, a local syndicate offering the thrill of racehorse ownership with a fraction of the financial risk (and none of the hassle). Here’s how you can become a partner.*
$10,000. If you owe this much in personal debt, this company can reach out to credit card companies + potentially reduce it. See how it works.*
The Buy
The Buy
Chic drawstring denim pants. The roomy, straight-leg design keeps these jeans comfortable and casual, while the drawstring cinch ensures they fit snugly around your waist. Bonus: Shop this Madewell version.
Since we shared our list of women-owned Lexington businesses last week, we’ve received recommendations for dozens more organizations to add and we want more. Take a peek to see if you’re favorite femme-forward business is already there, and let us know if it isn’t.
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