At least 10 Kentuckians confirmed dead as Beshear warns of ongoing winter storm dangers
FRANKFORT, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — Governor Andy Beshear says at least 10 people across Kentucky have now died as a result of the severe winter storm, as dangerously cold temperatures continue to grip the state.
The update came Wednesday from the Governor’s Office, which says the storm has created life-threatening conditions ranging from power outages and icy roads to extreme wind chills capable of causing frostbite in minutes.
“We are still experiencing dangerously cold temperatures and windchills, which will continue through the week,” Beshear said in a statement released by his office. “Even 10 to 30 minutes outside can cause frostbite and hypothermia at the coldest of times. We need people to stay indoors as much as possible and bring their pets inside too.”
According to the release, the storm-related deaths include:
• a 68-year-old man in Daviess County
• a 79-year-old man in Graves County
• a 55-year-old man in Jefferson County
• a 64-year-old man in Johnson County
• two 71-year-old men in Johnson County
• a 48-year-old man in Morgan County
• a 78-year-old man in Owen County
• a 62-year-old man in Pulaski County
• a 72-year-old woman in Whitley County
Beshear said families of the victims will receive help through the Team Kentucky Emergency Relief Fund to assist with funeral costs.
Power outages are improving but still impacting thousands. As of Wednesday afternoon, more than 12,600 homes and businesses were without electricity — down from more than 73,000 at the peak of the storm, according to the Governor’s Office. Utility crews from several neighboring states have been working around the clock to restore service.
Warming centers remain open across Kentucky, with more than 885 people using them Tuesday night alone. In total, 117 warming centers are currently operating statewide. Information on locations can be found through Kentucky Emergency Management.
Road crews continue battling snow and thick ice, though most interstates are now largely clear. Secondary roads and neighborhood routes remain slick, especially as melted snow refreezes overnight into dangerous black ice. Officials warn that extremely cold temperatures are also limiting how effective salt and deicers can be.
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet reports plow crews have logged more than 741,000 miles since Friday — enough to circle the Earth nearly 30 times.
Kentucky Emergency Management and the National Guard remain active, assisting with debris removal, wellness checks, transportation for essential workers and emergency needs across the state.
The Governor previously declared a statewide emergency, activating response resources and price-gouging protections. President Donald Trump also approved an emergency disaster declaration over the weekend, allowing federal resources to support the state’s response efforts.
Officials continue urging Kentuckians to avoid unnecessary travel, dress in layers when outside, use generators safely outdoors, and check on neighbors who may need help.
