Louisville, Kentucky – A surge of Arctic air is expected to push into Kentucky beginning Thursday, bringing a sharp drop in temperatures, subzero wind chills in some areas, and the potential for snow through the following Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, Kentucky is expected to experience below-normal temperatures during the Jan. 15–21 period as a large-scale Arctic pattern settles over the central and eastern United States. While precipitation is projected to remain near seasonal averages, persistent cold will allow ice to develop quickly on roads, even with light snowfall.
Northern Kentucky, including Covington, Florence, and the Cincinnati metro area, faces the greatest risk for dangerous wind chills during overnight and early morning hours. Repeated freezing may create slick conditions on Interstate 71, Interstate 75, and the Brent Spence Bridge approaches, especially during commute periods. Prolonged cold could also strain heating systems and increase the risk of frozen pipes.
Central Kentucky, including Louisville, Frankfort, and Elizabethtown, is expected to see temperatures fall well below seasonal norms. Even minor snow accumulations could lead to hazardous travel on Interstate 64 and Interstate 65 as roads refreeze nightly. Bridges and overpasses will be especially vulnerable to black ice.
In eastern Kentucky, including Lexington, Hazard, and Pikeville, colder air combined with elevation may enhance snow potential at times. Winding mountain roads and rural routes could become difficult to navigate if snow develops during the coldest periods. Farther west, areas such as Bowling Green, Owensboro, and Paducah may avoid the coldest readings but will still face a prolonged stretch of bitter conditions.
Residents are urged to prepare now by checking furnaces, insulating exposed pipes, and keeping winter emergency kits in vehicles. Limiting outdoor exposure overnight and early in the morning will be important if wind chill advisories are issued.
Cold-related alerts may be expanded as confidence increases, with additional updates expected as the Arctic pattern settles over Kentucky late next week.
