If you’re in Jackson, Kentucky, get ready for a serious dose of winter weather. A major snowstorm is moving in, bringing heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures, and hazardous road conditions through Thursday afternoon.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning, meaning travel will be dangerous, if not impossible, in some areas as snow piles up. With up to 7 inches expected, roads will quickly become slick and snow-covered, and frigid temperatures will keep everything frozen solid.
If you don’t have to go out, staying home is the best and safest option.
What’s Happening Right Now?
Snow is already falling, and road conditions are deteriorating fast. Snowplows and salt trucks are working hard, but the heavy snowfall is making it tough to keep roads clear.
Here’s what’s happening across the region:
- Jackson, KY – 14°F (-10°C), steady snow, slick roads developing
- Hazard, KY – 16°F (-9°C), light snow, visibility dropping
- London, KY – 18°F (-8°C), cloudy now, expecting heavy snow overnight
- Lexington, KY – 20°F (-7°C), light snow, roads turning icy
By late Wednesday night into early Thursday morning, the heaviest snowfall will arrive, making travel extremely difficult and even dangerous.
How Long Will This Winter Storm Last?
-
Tonight (Wednesday Night – Early Thursday Morning):
- This will be the worst of the storm.
- Snow will fall heavily at times, making roads nearly impossible to drive on.
- Another 2 to 4 inches of snow will pile up overnight.
- Wind chills will make it feel like the single digits.
-
Thursday Morning – Afternoon:
- The snow will slow down, but roads will still be icy and dangerous.
- Temperatures will struggle to reach 23°F (-5°C), meaning nothing will melt.
- If you have to go out, expect slow travel and slick roads.
-
Thursday Night – Friday Morning:
- Temperatures will drop to 9°F (-13°C) overnight.
- Anything that melts during the day will refreeze, keeping roads icy.
-
Friday & The Weekend:
- Some sunshine will return, helping melt some ice, but temperatures will stay cold.
- Highs will be in the low 30s, meaning it’ll take a few days for things to improve.
How Much Snow Are We Getting?
- Jackson, Hazard, London: 4 to 7 inches of snow, possibly more in some spots.
- Lexington & Surrounding Areas: 3 to 5 inches, with icy conditions lingering.
- Higher Elevations in Eastern KY: Up to 8 inches, with strong winds creating snowdrifts.
Regardless of the exact totals, roads will be extremely slick and dangerous well into Thursday.
Biggest Concerns: What You Need to Watch Out For
Treacherous Roads & Black Ice – Snow and ice will stick instantly, and with frigid temperatures, there’s no chance of melting. Bridges and overpasses will freeze first, making travel even riskier.
Brutal Cold & Frostbite Risk – With wind chills in the single digits, frostbite can happen in as little as 30 minutes on exposed skin.
Blowing Snow & Low Visibility – Gusty winds will create near-whiteout conditions at times, making it hard to see if you’re driving.
Possible Power Outages – Heavy, wet snow could bring down tree limbs and power lines in some areas.
Pets & Livestock at Risk – If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them. Bring pets inside, and make sure outdoor animals have shelter and access to unfrozen water.
Road Conditions: What You Need to Know
Major highways and interstates are already becoming slick.
- I-64 and the Mountain Parkway are expected to be snow-covered overnight.
- Local roads, side streets, and untreated roads will be treacherous.
- State officials are advising drivers to stay home unless absolutely necessary.
Truckers and long-haul drivers should be prepared for major slowdowns.
- If you’re traveling through Kentucky overnight, expect icy roads and poor visibility.
- Make sure your vehicle is stocked with emergency supplies like blankets, food, and extra batteries.
State officials are urging people to stay off the roads until conditions improve.
How to Stay Safe During This Winter Storm
Stay Off the Roads If Possible – If you don’t have to go out, don’t risk it. If you must drive, go slow, brake gently, and expect delays.
Bundle Up & Cover Your Skin – Frostbite can happen quickly in this cold. Wear gloves, a hat, thick socks, and multiple layers if you must go outside.
Check on Elderly Neighbors & Family Members – Make sure they have heat, food, and everything they need before the worst of the storm hits.
Keep Pets Inside – If you’re cold, they’re cold. Make sure they have warm shelter, food, and unfrozen water.
Prepare for Power Outages – Charge your phone now, stock up on flashlights, extra batteries, and blankets. NEVER use generators or grills indoors—they can be deadly.
