Louisville, Kentucky – A sharp overnight freeze will grip south central Indiana and central Kentucky late Friday night, sending temperatures into the mid-20s and threatening early spring vegetation before sunrise Saturday.
The cold surge arrives after midnight and could push lows to around 26 degrees in colder valleys and rural communities. The freeze is likely to form widespread frost across gardens, farms, and open fields throughout the Ohio Valley.
According to the National Weather Service in Louisville, a Freeze Warning remains in effect from midnight EDT through 10 a.m. Saturday for dozens of counties across the region. The alert includes major cities such as Louisville, Lexington, Elizabethtown, Bowling Green, and Frankfort in Kentucky, along with New Albany, Jeffersonville, Corydon, and Paoli in southern Indiana.
Farmers and homeowners may see damage to budding trees, early vegetable gardens, and flowering plants. Officials recommend covering sensitive plants, bringing potted plants indoors, and disconnecting or insulating outdoor hoses and plumbing where possible.
The cold could be especially noticeable in rural counties such as Hardin, Nelson, Dubois, and Harrison, where clear skies and light winds will allow temperatures to drop quickly overnight.
Morning commuters Saturday should expect a cold start, though dry conditions should keep travel smooth along major routes including Interstate 64, Interstate 65, and the Bluegrass Parkway.
Temperatures will gradually climb Saturday afternoon as sunshine returns, but residents should prepare for at least one more chilly night early next week. Freeze warnings remain in effect through mid-morning Saturday and additional advisories could follow if cold conditions persist.
