Louisville, Kentucky – A warmer-than-normal and wetter weather pattern is expected to settle across Kentucky heading into Valentine’s Day weekend, increasing the likelihood of periods of rain, fog, and slower travel from Saturday through midweek. While no single high-impact winter storm is currently indicated, repeated rounds of moisture could create cumulative impacts on roads, rivers, and low-lying areas statewide.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, Kentucky is favored for above-normal precipitation and above-normal temperatures during the February 14–18 period. This setup limits prolonged cold air while increasing confidence in rain-producing systems moving through the Ohio and Tennessee valleys.
In north-central Kentucky, including Louisville, Elizabethtown, and the I-65 corridor, rain is expected to be the dominant precipitation type. Periods of steady rainfall could lead to ponding on roadways and reduced visibility during overnight and early morning travel, especially on I-64, I-65, and local surface streets.
Central and eastern Kentucky, including Lexington, Richmond, and Morehead, may see fluctuating rainfall intensity with occasional heavier showers. While temperatures remain well above freezing, persistent moisture could slow travel and increase hydroplaning risk along I-75 and the Mountain Parkway.
In western Kentucky, including Owensboro, Paducah, and Murray, repeated rainfall combined with runoff from upstream basins may cause rivers and creeks to rise. Emergency management officials encourage residents near flood-prone waterways to monitor water levels closely and avoid driving across water-covered roads.
Farther southeast, in the Cumberland Plateau region, including Hazard and Pikeville, rainfall on saturated ground could lead to localized poor drainage flooding, particularly in valleys and low-lying communities.
Air travel through Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport and Blue Grass Airport may experience occasional delays during periods of low clouds or heavier rain, though widespread disruptions are not expected. Utilities report no elevated concerns for ice-related outages under this warmer pattern.
This warmer, wetter setup is expected to persist into midweek. Additional advisories may be issued as individual systems become clearer, and residents are urged to stay alert for updated alerts, especially during overnight and early morning travel windows.
