Gov. Beshear confirms winter storm death toll rises to 16 across Kentucky

FRANKFORT, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — Kentucky’s deadly winter storm continues to claim lives, with the state’s confirmed death toll now rising to 16.

In a post shared on social media, Gov. Andy Beshear said a 75-year-old woman in Adair County has died as a result of storm-related conditions. The governor called the update “more tough news” and asked Kentuckians to keep the affected families in their prayers.

This latest death adds to a growing list of fatalities tied to last week’s severe winter weather, which brought dangerous cold, ice, power outages and hazardous travel conditions across much of the commonwealth.

State leaders continue urging residents to remain cautious as recovery efforts continue, noting that lingering ice, freezing temperatures and utility disruptions can still pose serious risks.

The governor has previously shared updates confirming other storm-related deaths across multiple counties. Officials say support from the Team Kentucky Emergency Relief Fund is helping families with funeral expenses tied to storm-related losses.