Louisville, KY — Kentucky could be impacted by a high-end winter storm this weekend, with snowfall totals ranging from light accumulations to as much as 12 to 24 inches in a worst-case scenario, depending on the storm’s eventual track.
According to the National Weather Service, forecasters are monitoring two primary storm scenarios, both of which would affect Kentucky but with dramatically different outcomes.
In Scenario 1, the storm tracks farther south before lifting northeast. Under this outcome, Kentucky would remain on the northern edge of the heaviest precipitation, resulting in lighter snow totals generally between 1 and 4 inches, mainly across southern and eastern portions of the state. Travel impacts would still be possible but more limited.
In Scenario 2, the storm tracks farther north through the Tennessee and Ohio Valleys before intensifying toward the Mid-Atlantic. This path would place much of Kentucky closer to the storm’s core, significantly increasing snowfall potential. In this scenario, 6 to 12 inches of snow would be possible across large portions of central and eastern Kentucky, including the Louisville and Lexington areas, with localized totals approaching 18 to 24 inches if a heavy snow band sets up across the state.
Snow is expected to begin late Saturday, intensify Sunday, and continue into Monday, with cold temperatures allowing snow to accumulate efficiently and linger on roadways. The National Weather Service warned that travel conditions could become dangerous or impossible, especially during periods of heavy snowfall.
Current guidance shows increasing probabilities for at least 6 inches of snow across Kentucky, particularly if the northern-track scenario develops. While Winter Storm Watches have not yet been issued statewide, forecasters say watches are likely within the next 24 to 36 hours as confidence increases.
Residents are urged to prepare now by adjusting weekend travel plans, stocking emergency supplies, and ensuring vehicles and heating systems are ready. With cold air expected to persist after the storm, impacts could last well into next week.
Further Kentucky-specific updates are expected as the storm track becomes clearer.
