Severe winter storm update from Gov. Beshear

FRANKFORT, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — Kentucky is still in recovery mode after last weekend’s powerful winter storm, as Governor Andy Beshear confirmed another weather-related death and warned that dangerously cold conditions remain a serious threat across the commonwealth.

The governor said Wednesday night that a 55-year-old man from Livingston County has died due to storm conditions.

Beshear said families of all victims will receive help through the Team Kentucky Emergency Relief Fund to assist with funeral expenses.

“Even short periods outside in these temperatures can lead to frostbite and hypothermia,” Beshear said, urging Kentuckians to remain cautious as recovery continues.

Power outages, warming centers and ongoing hazards

Utility crews have made major progress restoring power across the state. As of Thursday afternoon, fewer than 6,000 customers were without electricity — down from more than 73,000 at the peak of outages over the weekend.

At the same time, hundreds of Kentuckians are still relying on warming centers to stay safe in the bitter cold. State officials say more than 890 people sought shelter Wednesday night, with 111 warming centers now operating statewide. Locations can be found through Kentucky Emergency Management at kyem.ky.gov.

Water systems have also been impacted by freezing temperatures and power issues. Fourteen drinking water systems are operating under limitations, and boil water advisories remain in place for more than 11,000 customers.

Crews continue clearing roads across Kentucky

State highway crews are still working around the clock to break up ice and clear hard-packed snow, especially on secondary roads and in some of the hardest-hit regions.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet reports that graders and plows remain active along major parkways and in several counties where ice remains stubborn due to extreme cold. Officials continue warning drivers about black ice, especially on bridges and shaded roadways.

Long-term flooding recovery moving forward

While winter response remains the immediate focus, Beshear also highlighted continued rebuilding efforts in communities devastated by past flooding and tornadoes.

In eastern Kentucky, new high-ground neighborhoods are taking shape for flood survivors in Floyd, Breathitt and Perry counties, with dozens of homes already under construction or completed.

State disaster recovery funding is also helping rebuild community centers and housing in flood-damaged areas, while tornado survivors in Bowling Green are preparing to move into newly built homes through partnerships with Habitat for Humanity.

The governor said Kentucky’s recovery approach is now being used as a national model for turning disaster relief funds into long-term housing solutions.

Officials urge continued caution

State police and emergency management crews have responded to thousands of storm-related calls, including wellness checks and motorist rescues, as conditions remain dangerous in many areas.

Beshear is again urging Kentuckians to avoid unnecessary travel, check on neighbors, bring pets inside and use generators safely.

Anyone with urgent needs that are not life-threatening can contact Kentucky’s Rapid Needs Assessment line at 502-607-6665.