Brutal cold settles in across Kentucky after winter storm

Lingering snow and ice give way to dangerous wind chills and subzero temperatures through midweek

Winter Storm Winds Down, but Dangerous Cold Takes Over

While the worst of the winter storm is beginning to wrap up, the impacts across Kentucky are far from over. Today brought widespread freezing rain, sleet, and even some snow showers as the system made its final push through the region. Although conditions are slowly improving in some spots, lingering snow showers continue across southern Kentucky this evening, adding a bit more accumulation before the system fully exits.

Road conditions remain slick and hazardous in many areas, especially on untreated roads and secondary streets. Even as precipitation tapers off, the cold air moving in behind this system will make it difficult for any melting to occur over the next several days.

Arctic Air Locks In Across the Commonwealth

As this storm departs, another surge of arctic air is settling in, and it is here to stay for a while. Temperatures tonight are expected to drop into the single digits across much of the region, with wind chills falling as low as 2 degrees below zero.

Tomorrow won’t offer much relief. Afternoon highs will struggle to climb out of the teens, and some locations may remain in the low single digits. When you factor in the wind, it will feel even colder, with wind chills dropping to around 6 degrees below zero.

This prolonged cold snap means that ice and snow already on the ground will remain in place, keeping road conditions poor and increasing the risk for refreezing each night.

A Cold Weather Advisory has been issued for most of the viewing area from 12 A.M. Monday though 7 P.M. Monday. 

Coldest Weather Arrives Monday Night Into Tuesday

The most dangerous cold is expected Monday night into Tuesday morning. During this period, actual air temperatures are forecast to fall well below zero in many areas. Wind chills could drop into the -10 to -15 range, creating extremely dangerous conditions for anyone outdoors for extended periods of time.

An Extreme Cold Warning has been issued for areas in the Bluegrass and west from 7 P.M. Monday through 11 A.M. Monday for these dangerous cold temperatures.

Travel and Safety Concerns Continue

Even though snowfall and ice are winding down, impacts will linger. With temperatures remaining well below freezing, any untreated roads will stay slick, and even previously cleared areas could refreeze overnight.

If you do not absolutely need to be out over the next several days, it is strongly recommended to stay home. This will allow road crews time to continue clearing and treating roads while keeping you safe from dangerous travel conditions and extreme cold exposure.

Looking Ahead: Cold Dominates the Forecast

The cold pattern is expected to remain locked in for much of the upcoming week. While there may be a few chances for light snow or flurries with passing systems, the primary story will continue to be the bitter cold.

Temperatures will remain well below average, and it may take several days before we see any meaningful moderation. Until then, it’s important to check on vulnerable neighbors, bring pets indoors, and take precautions to protect pipes and property from freezing.

Stay safe, stay warm, and continue checking back for updates as conditions evolve across Kentucky.