PIKEVILLE, Ky. – Early winter is making its presence known across Kentucky’s southeastern mountains tonight, as colder air sweeps through and brings periods of snow showers from Pikeville to Harlan and Whitesburg. The storm will coat higher ridges and passes with a few inches of snow, making for slick roads and slower travel through early Tuesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Jackson, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 7 p.m. Sunday to 7 a.m. Tuesday for Bell, Pike, Harlan, and Letcher Counties. Snow totals will vary sharply by elevation — up to 4 inches are possible above 3,500 feet, while lower valleys may see an inch or less. Locally higher spots near Black Mountain and Pine Mountain could pick up isolated 5-inch totals where snow bands persist.
Motorists traveling along U.S. 119, U.S. 23, and Kentucky Route 15 should prepare for slippery conditions, especially at elevations above 2,000 feet. Both the Monday morning and evening commutes could be affected as scattered snow showers continue.
Residents are urged to use caution, reduce speed, and monitor local road updates at GoKY.ky.gov. While snow will taper late Monday night, gusty winds and subfreezing temperatures may leave icy patches on untreated surfaces into Tuesday morning.
Forecasters expect a break midweek before another cold front brings renewed early-winter snow chances next weekend.
