Harlan, Kentucky – Drivers across eastern Kentucky have less than 24 hours to prepare before snow begins falling by 11 a.m. Sunday, creating slick highways and reduced visibility that could disrupt the Monday morning and evening commutes.
According to the National Weather Service in Jackson, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect from 11 a.m. Sunday through 6 p.m. Monday for Harlan, Pike, Floyd, Knott, Perry, Letcher and Martin counties. Most communities can expect 1 to 2 inches of snow, while higher elevations near the Virginia border could see totals reach 5 inches.
Statewide impacts will center on eastern Kentucky, where gusts between 15 and 25 mph may combine with steady snowfall to cut visibility during daylight hours Sunday and Monday. Blowing snow could create sudden whiteout conditions along exposed stretches of U.S. 23, KY 80 and mountain roadways near Jenkins and Whitesburg.
In Hazard, Pikeville and Prestonsburg, road crews are expected to monitor bridges and overpasses first, where freezing occurs fastest. School officials and employers may weigh delays if snowfall rates increase before dawn Monday.
Officials urge drivers to slow down, leave extra stopping distance and check real-time road conditions at GoKY. Keep mobile devices charged and allow extra travel time.
Snow tapers late Monday afternoon, but slick spots may linger into Monday evening. Additional advisories remain possible if bands intensify.
