Snow and bitter cold set to impact the region to close out the weekend

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC 36 Storm Team) – Prepare for a significant shift in the weather as chilly rain showers on Saturday evening transition to snow overnight. Temperatures will plummet into the 20s by Sunday morning, setting the stage for impactful winter weather across the ABC 36 viewing area.

Winter Weather Headlines

• Snowfall: Accumulating snow is expected, with Winter Weather Advisories in effect. Winter Storm Warnings have also been issued for Harlan, Letcher, and Knott counties in southeastern Kentucky due to heavier snow on the ride tops. Central Kentucky could see light to moderate accumulations, while heavier bands may impact eastern Kentucky.
• Sunday Commute: Snow-covered roads and slick spots are likely, especially on untreated surfaces. Travel delays should be anticipated.
• Bitter Cold Conditions: As snow tapers off Sunday, bitterly cold air settles in, with wind chills plunging to -5° to -15°. A Cold Weather Advisory has been issued for the entire viewing area due to this dangerous cold.
• Extended Cold Snap: Frigid conditions will persist into midweek, with highs in the teens to low 20s and lows in the single digits.

As rain shifts to snow overnight, temperatures will quickly drop, leading to slick roadways by Sunday morning. Snow showers will become more widespread early Sunday, with heavier bands possible during the morning hours. By the afternoon, snow squalls could develop, bringing brief bursts of heavy snow and gusty winds. These squalls may lead to rapidly changing road conditions and reduced visibility, so be cautious if you’re traveling.

The snow will taper off Sunday evening, but the cold air pouring in behind it will be brutal. Temperatures will barely rise above the teens on Monday and Tuesday, and overnight lows will sink into the single digits. Combine that with gusty northwest winds, and it will feel dangerously cold, with wind chills near or below zero for several days.

Winter Safety Tips

• Dress in warm layers and protect exposed skin to prevent frostbite.
• Limit outdoor time for children and pets.
• Make sure your home is winter-ready: insulate pipes, and check heating systems.
• If traveling, pack an emergency kit with blankets, snacks, and water.

ABC 36 Hour Forecast
Saturday Night: Rain showers turn to snow after midnight, with light accumulations likely by morning. Roads will become slick, especially in areas where snow arrives earlier. Lows will dip to the mid-20s, with a strong north-northwesterly wind at 10-15 mph.
Sunday: Snow showers will continue through the morning, becoming lighter by the afternoon. Expect 1-3 inches of accumulation across the region, with higher totals possible in eastern areas. Winds will gust up to 20 mph, creating blowing snow and reducing visibility. Temperatures will hover in the upper 20s, but it will feel much colder as wind chills fall into the single digits.
Sunday Night: The snow exits, but the cold is here to stay. Skies will clear overnight, allowing temperatures to plunge into the single digits. With gusty northwesterly winds, it will feel like -10° to -15°. Be sure to bundle up and limit time outdoors.