Kentucky, September 11, 2025
News Summary
A significant winter storm is forecasted to affect nearly all areas of Kentucky, with heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain predicted. The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm watch and warned residents to stay home to avoid dangerous travel conditions. With northern-central Kentucky expecting 6-10 inches of snow and substantial ice accumulation, Governor Andy Beshear has declared a state of emergency and activated National Guard units. Emergency preparations are underway, including the opening of warming centers across various counties.
Frankfort, Kentucky – A significant winter storm is expected to hit nearly all areas of Kentucky, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a winter storm watch effective from Sunday morning, January 7, through Tuesday morning. The impending storm is forecasted to bring a combination of snow, sleet, and freezing rain, severely impacting travel and living conditions across the state.
In northern-central Kentucky, the harshest weather is anticipated, with snowfall totals reaching between 6 to 10 inches and ice accumulation potentially exceeding a quarter of an inch. Southern Indiana may also face substantial snowfall, with estimates of 6 to 10 inches. Other areas of Kentucky are predicted to receive between 2 to 6 inches of snow, accompanied by ice accumulation of 0.2 to 0.6 inches.
To combat the storm’s impact, Governor Andy Beshear has activated National Guard units and declared a state of emergency across the state. Residents are being advised to remain at home and avoid roads during the storm due to the treacherous conditions expected. The National Weather Service has explicitly discouraged travel, warning that it could become nearly impossible between Sunday and Monday.
As part of the preparation efforts, at least 11 counties are opening warming centers to assist those who may face power outages as a result of the storm. Power outages and tree damage are anticipated, even with minimal ice accumulation, reinforcing the need for residents to remain cautious.
The incoming weather system is part of a broader 1,300-mile storm affecting approximately 62 million people from the Plains to the East Coast. After the storm passes, temperatures are forecasted to dip to single digits, further urging residents to prepare for ongoing cold conditions.
Emergency services and road crews are currently on high alert, having been pre-positioned throughout the state to manage roads and assist in emergency situations. Residents are strongly encouraged to assemble an emergency kit that includes food, water, medications, and other essentials in case of power outages or being stranded during the storm.
As the storm approaches, the public is reminded to stay updated with both local and national weather reports for any changes in forecasts or conditions. The importance of preparedness has never been more critical as winter brings its challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What areas are affected by the winter storm watch?
Nearly all areas of Kentucky are included in the winter storm watch, with northern-central Kentucky expected to experience the most severe conditions.
2. What are the main weather concerns associated with the storm?
The storm is expected to bring a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain, leading to hazardous travel conditions and potential power outages.
3. How much snow and ice accumulation is forecasted?
Forecasts indicate snowfall of 6 to 10 inches in northern-central Kentucky and southern Indiana, with lighter accumulations of 2 to 6 inches in other parts of Kentucky, plus ice accumulation of up to 0.6 inches.
4. What safety measures are being taken by the state?
Governor Andy Beshear has declared a state of emergency and activated National Guard units. Warming centers are being opened in at least 11 counties for public safety.
5. What should residents do to prepare?
Residents are advised to stay home, prepare emergency kits, and keep updated with local weather forecasts as conditions may change rapidly.
Key Features of the Upcoming Winter Storm
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Winter Storm Watch Duration | January 7 – January 9 |
| Expected Snowfall in Northern-Central Kentucky | 6 to 10 inches |
| Ice Accumulation | Up to 0.6 inches |
| Governor’s Actions | State of emergency declared and National Guard activated |
| Emergency Preparations | Warming centers opened in 11 counties |
| Travel Recommendations | Highly discouraged during storm conditions |
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Additional Resources
- WHAS11: Weather Impact Alert
- Wikipedia: Winter Storm
- WKRN: Winter Storm for Middle Tennessee
- Google Search: Winter Storm Kentucky January 2025
- Kentucky.com: Weather News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Winter Weather
- WHAS11: Winter Storm Warning



