Updated: Snow burst spotted in Frankfort, moves toward Lexington. Flurries expected in region
Sections of Central Kentucky could experience bursts of snow, leading to traffic hazards Monday, according to the National Weather Service.
The NWS said a heavy snow burst was spotted over Frankfort just after 2:15 p.m. and it was heading towards Lexington. The snow squall could create reduced visibility and small snow accumulation on grass.
The NWS has issued a winter weather advisory for a significant portion of the state, stretching as far west as Louisville and covering the entirety of Eastern Kentucky, in preparation for the storm. The advisory is in effect from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday.
Scattered snow showers are expected throughout the day Monday. The NWS said heavier bursts of snow could cause slick road conditions and create traffic hazards.
Gov. Andy Beshear asked motorists to take extra precaution while driving.
“Kentucky, please be careful on the roads today as an arctic front passes through the region bringing in wind gusts of 20-30 mph and some scattered snow showers,” Beshear said in a post on X.
Snow accumulation is not expected with this storm, according to the NWS. The highest chances for snow accumulation are along I-75, and isolated areas could get about half an inch of accumulation.
It won’t be the first time the region has seen snow this season, although past instances have been insignificant. The NWS said Lexington has reported traces of snow in the last month but nothing equating to a snow storm.
Temperatures are expected to be in the mid 30s to low 40s with wind gust speeds peaking around 30 miles per hour Monday, the NWS said. Temperatures are expected to sink below 20 degrees Fahrenheit Monday evening.
In a public service announcement Monday, Beshear and Kentucky State Police provided a list of essential items that should be included in vehicles in preparation for winter weather. The list includes:
- A cellphone charger
- Blankets
- First-aid kit
- Jumper cables
- Windshield scraper
- Collapsible shovel
- Flashlight with batteries
- Bottled water and/or snacks
“It’s that time of year when we all need to ensure our vehicles have safeguards in place for the winter weather driving season,” Beshear said in a statement. “This is a great opportunity for all of us to assemble winter driving kits to keep our families safe if we are stranded on the roadways due to inclement weather.”
KSP also asked people to avoid calling 911 for road condition updates.
“Dialing 911 for road and weather conditions can tie up emergency lines and hinder the response to critical situations,” KSP spokesperson Capt. Paul Blanton said in a statement. “We encourage citizens to use our social media channels to access up-to-date information efficiently and allow emergency services to focus on immediate concerns.”
This story was originally published December 18, 2023 at 7:25 AM.
