LEXINGTON, Ky. — The city of Lexington announced Tuesday that offices not involved in weather response will close at 3 p.m. due to a dangerous severe weather system expected to impact the area, according to a statement from the mayor's office.

Mayor Linda Gorton urged residents to exercise caution, warning that damaging winds, hail, and widespread travel disruptions are all possibilities. The National Weather Service has placed a level 3 of 5 severe weather risk over the Lexington metro area and points northeast along I-64.

The city expects potential power outages, downed trees and limbs in roadways, and traffic signal problems. Storms may arrive during evening rush hour, according to forecasters. Damaging straight-line winds pose the biggest concern, though a few tornadoes cannot be ruled out. Flash flooding is also a significant threat, with the slow-moving storm system potentially bringing repeated rounds of heavy rain.

The city has mobilized its emergency response resources. Employees in the Streets and Roads, Water Quality, and Traffic Engineering divisions have been placed on call and instructed to check equipment and prepare vehicles. First responders have completed advance planning and stand ready to assist residents as needed.

City emergency management officials have remained in continuous contact with forecasters and Kentucky Emergency Management to coordinate response preparations. Lexington residents can stay informed about developing conditions by following Lexington Emergency Management on Facebook (@lexingtonkyem) or visiting bereadylexington.com.