ABC 36 Winter Weather Impact Days; Governor declares State of Emergency

January 4, 2025

ABC 36 Digital Staff,

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – A significant winter storm is in the forecast from Sunday through the day on Monday.

A Winter Storm Warning has been issued for the northern half of the area, with a Winter Weather Advisory in the forecast for southern Kentucky.

This begins with a heavy band of snow Sunday before the ice threat moves in. Significant ice and snow is expected with this storm.

Meteorologist Dillon Gaudet will be providing updates throughout the rest of Saturday and Sunday, including on a Winter Storm Special that will air on ABC 36 Sunday at 12 PM (noon) EST on Sunday.

Also, Gov. Andy Beshear has declared a state of emergency ahead of the severe winter storm system expected to impact much of Kentucky, according to a press release from the governor’s office.

The ABC 36 Storm Team meteorologists say the storm is forecast to begin Sunday, Jan. 5, and bring snow, freezing rain, ice, and arctic temperatures. According to the governor’s office, these conditions could lead to widespread power outages and make roads hazardous, with freezing temperatures expected to linger throughout the week.

In preparation for the storm, Beshear has activated units of the Kentucky National Guard to assist in response efforts. According to the governor’s release, state transportation workers are also preparing to address roadway conditions, and local emergency management teams are coordinating plans to open warming centers as needed.

Additionally, the governor has activated the state’s emergency operations center and enforced Kentucky’s price gouging laws to protect residents from inflated prices on goods and services during the recovery. The release urged consumers to report any instances of price gouging to the Office of the Attorney General.