Louisville, Kentucky – A powerful surge of Arctic air is expected to dominate the Ohio Valley from Thursday through Monday, delivering a prolonged stretch of well below-normal temperatures and increasing cold-related risks across the region.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, the Ohio Valley is positioned under a strong cold signal for the January 15–19 period, with temperatures expected to run significantly below seasonal averages. While precipitation chances remain limited, the cold itself will be the primary hazard, with wind chills dropping to dangerous levels at times.
In Ohio, including Columbus, Cincinnati, Dayton, and Cleveland, daytime highs are expected to struggle, while overnight lows plunge sharply. Wind chills may fall into the single digits or below zero during the coldest mornings, increasing the risk of frostbite with prolonged outdoor exposure. Any lingering moisture on roads could refreeze overnight, creating slick conditions even without new precipitation.
Across Indiana, including Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, and Evansville, repeated freezing nights are expected as Arctic air settles in. Clear skies and light winds may allow temperatures to fall quickly after sunset, leading to widespread frost and icy patches on bridges and untreated surfaces.
In Kentucky, including Louisville, Lexington, Bowling Green, and the eastern highlands, multiple nights of hard freezes are likely. Sub-freezing temperatures may persist for several hours overnight, raising concerns for exposed pipes, pets, and vulnerable populations. Elevated terrain in eastern Kentucky may experience some of the coldest readings.
Portions of western Pennsylvania and West Virginia within the Ohio Valley will also feel the effects of the Arctic air mass, with suppressed daytime highs and bitterly cold mornings. Wind exposure in open and elevated areas will exacerbate cold conditions.
The cold pattern is being driven by a deep Arctic trough locking cold air in place across the central and eastern United States. Relief is not expected quickly, and temperatures may remain below normal even during the afternoon hours.
Residents across the Ohio Valley are urged to take cold-weather precautions, dress in layers, limit time outdoors during the coldest periods, and protect pipes and pets. This Arctic pattern is expected to persist through Monday, with additional cold-related advisories or warnings possible as confidence increases.
