And we think we have problems

[gae]

Hundreds Stranded on KY Interstate; Entire Region Paralyzed

Staff Report

Wednesday, December 22, 2004

Several Western Kentucky counties have declared States of Emergency and the National Guard is rescuing stranded motorists as the region battles the worst winter storm in a decade.

Travel is nearly impossible except in a few cities like Paducah and Carbondale where snowplows have opened some major streets.

A major developing story is a 40 mile traffic backup on Interstate 24 from Mile Marker 25 in Marshall County to Mile marker 65 in Lyon County. Hundreds of cars are stuck on the highway, some for eight to ten hours. A massive rescue effort is underway. Kentucky National Guard units from Madisonville, Marshall County, Trigg County and Christian County have been mobilized and are evacuating stranded motorists to shelters.

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[Dulcinea]

This is going to play havoc with the "I'll Be Home for Christmas" contingent.

The airport is closed, isn't it?

I do feel sorry for those stranded on the highway. That has got to be a whole lot of not-fun, but at some point didn't they realize they should get off the highway and look for shelter? Maybe by the previous exit? The National Guard was a good choice, I'll bet they have good vehicles for this and the guys they mobilize will be able to feel good about what they did and should still get back home for Christmas.

The Red Cross should also be seeing about shelter for these people, maybe in schools or something. I'll bet there is 'no room at the inn'.

[gae]

According to an article I read from the local news in the area, the trouble started yesterday about 3 PM. A truck was involved in an accident, and while the traffic was waiting for it to be cleared, cars were snowed in.

This tread on FreeRepublic has more details.