Kentucky — The air feels crisp and heavy, wind presses through coats, and breath hangs visibly as winter tightens across central Kentucky. MLK Day unfolds under a sharp cold snap that makes even short trips outside uncomfortable.
According to the National Weather Service in Louisville, very cold conditions persist today and into Tuesday morning across central Kentucky and southern Indiana. Wind chills hover near zero, with brief dips into the single digits below zero possible early Tuesday. Gusty winds up to 25 mph add bite to already cold air.
Louisville sees sunshine today, but little warmth follows. Highs struggle into the lower 20s, while wind chills stay in the teens or colder. Tonight, temperatures fall near 10 degrees, allowing frost to develop quickly. Any moisture left on roads or sidewalks can freeze, raising the risk of slick spots during early travel.
Tuesday brings a modest improvement. Afternoon highs rebound into the lower 30s with lighter winds, offering brief relief. Attention then turns to midweek. By Wednesday, highs climb into the low 40s, and a chance of mixed rain and snow develops during the afternoon. While accumulations look limited, timing could impact commuters, especially if temperatures hover near freezing early.
Thursday trends quieter and mild for January, with highs near the upper 30s. Cooler air returns Friday, keeping winter active but manageable. NOAA’s longer-range outlook suggests near-normal precipitation and fluctuating temperatures heading into late January.
Limit time outdoors today, dress in layers, and bring pets inside. Watch for icy patches during morning and evening hours, especially on bridges and shaded roads.
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Louisville, Kentucky
• Today (MLK Day): Sunny, cold, high near 22°F
• Tuesday: Mostly sunny, less windy, high near 31°F
• Wednesday: Chance of rain and snow, high near 43°F
• Thursday: Mostly sunny, cooler, high near 38°F
• Friday: Mostly cloudy, colder, high near 31°F
