Kentucky wakes to air that burns exposed skin and stiffens breath within seconds. Streetlights glow over frozen pavement, and the Ohio River valley traps the cold in place. This morning carries real risk for anyone outdoors too long.
An Extreme Cold Warning remains in effect for Louisville and surrounding counties until late morning. Wind chills have dropped as low as 15 to 20 degrees below zero in parts of central Kentucky and southern Indiana. According to the National Weather Service, frostbite can occur in minutes without proper protection.
Current temperatures sit near 4 degrees in Louisville, with wind chills closer to 11 below. Travel remains possible, but drivers should stay alert. Cold pavement hides slick spots, especially on bridges, ramps, and untreated side streets. Any melting from yesterday has refrozen hard.
Clouds increase later today as a reinforcing cold front slides through. Despite filtered sunshine, highs only reach the upper 20s. Winds ease slightly, though it will still feel sharply cold through the afternoon. Brief flurries are possible across the Bluegrass region, but accumulation should stay light.
Tonight turns frigid again. Temperatures fall near zero, setting up another icy start Wednesday morning. Patchy slick spots may redevelop before sunrise, especially in shaded areas and valleys.
Wednesday stays cold and dry, with highs near 22 under mostly sunny skies. Thursday follows with similar conditions, though clouds increase late. By Thursday night, a weak disturbance could bring spotty flurries, mainly north of the Ohio River.
Friday remains cold, with highs in the teens and a few lingering flurries possible. Winter holds firm into the weekend before a gradual moderation arrives early next week.
For now, limit time outdoors, dress in layers, and check on neighbors. Bring pets inside and plan travel during daylight hours when possible.
Five-Day Outlook for Louisville, Kentucky
• Today: Increasing clouds, high near 27
• Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high near 22
• Thursday: Mostly cloudy, high near 24
• Friday: Partly cloudy, high near 17
• Saturday: Partly sunny, high near 17
