What is a ‘clipper’? Meet the weather system bringing frigid air and snow to KY
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Alberta clipper will sweep KY, mostly 2–4 in; up to 5 in spots overnight.
- A second clipper arrives over the weekend, bringing more snow and sharper cold.
- Forecasters warn wind chills near -10°F; residents should layer and monitor risks.
A fast-moving weather system is set to bring bitterly cold air to Kentucky and could dump up to 5 inches of snow overnight Thursday across the central and northern parts of the state.
Known as an Alberta clipper, the system takes its name from the Canadian province it originates from. With one expected to sweep through the region overnight Thursday, areas north of I-64 could get 2 to 4-inches of snow and possibly more in some areas, forecasters with the National Weather Service in Louisville project.
Forecasters expect a second clipper system to arrive over the weekend, bringing more snow and contributing to the coldest temperatures of the season. Wind chills in the Bluegrass region could dip as low as -10 degrees Fahrenheit by Sunday.
So what exactly is a clipper? Here’s what to know.
What is an Alberta clipper?
The National Weather Service defines an Alberta clipper as a fast-moving, low-pressure system that moves southeast out of the Canadian province it takes its name from.
As explained by Mike Kochasic, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Louisville, they’re called “clippers” because they quickly sweep across the northern half of the U.S. in winter, usually bringing snow along the way.
Clippers usually trace a path along the Plains, Midwest and into the Great Lakes region. They’re similar systems with different names based on their origin in Canada, a Saskatchewan screamer or a Manitoba mauler, for example.
“The first wave will be tonight, and then you’ll have another one as we move in through the weekend,” Kochasic said.
The latest forecast for Lexington calls for a Thursday night low of about 29. Chance of precipitation is forecasted at 90%, with 2 to 4 inches of snowfall expected in the area.
If you’re out Saturday night, expect snow before 1 a.m. with a single-digit low of just 5 degrees. The high on Sunday is expected to max out at 13 degrees.
At those frigid temperatures, you’ll want to bundle up, as prolonged exposure to wind chills can be dangerous. If you do have to go out, dress in layers of weather appropriate clothing that will both insulate you and repel wind and snow.
You should also know the warning signs of frostbite and hypothermia.