What is closed, canceled in Lexington as Winter Storm Fern blows into Central KY?
Saturday’s snow has turned to sleet and freezing rain Sunday across Central Kentucky as Winter Storm Fern blows across the region bringing bitter cold temperatures and hazardous weather conditions.
Ice accumulations of up to half an inch are expected Sunday in Lexington, adding to an already slick layer of snow and overnight ice. A winter storm warning is in effect for many Kentucky counties through early Monday.
Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton has urged residents stay off the roads and only travel in emergencies.
“If you must travel, bring food, water, a flashlight, warm clothes, and extra blankets,” the city said in a news release. “Also, drive cautiously and allow extra time to reach your destination.”
You can find a running list of Fayette County closings and cancellations below. Last updated — 2:08 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 25.
What is closed or canceled in Lexington, KY due to the winter storm?
The University of Kentucky announced in-person classes are canceled and the university will be closed Monday, Jan. 26. Plan B-designated staff will remain on regular schedule and UK HealthCare will remain open.
Lexington city offices that are not involved in winter weather response will be also closed Monday, the city said in a news release. All Lexington Public Library branches are closed Sunday.
The Fayette County Clerks’ Office is closed Monday and city garbage collection is suspended.
Lexington’s Blue Grass Airport flight status board shows all departing and arriving flights to the facility canceled as of 10:48 a.m. Sunday.
Fayette Mall in Lexington announced it is closed Sunday as the winter storm blasting half the nation rolled into Central Kentucky.
Stores and restaurants that have exterior entrances may have varying hours, the mall said in a statement, so customers should call ahead before driving there. Changes and updates to the mall hours will be posted on its website and on Fayette Mall social media accounts.
Several Lexington businesses, include Doodles Breakfast and Lunch, BHG Restaurants and Old School Coffee, have already closed to patrons as of Sunday morning. Check local business Facebook pages or social media directly for information on closures.
Goodwill said its stores in Lexington, Louisville and many other towns across the state were closing early, at 7 p.m. Saturday.
A number of area churches also have canceled Sunday services.
Fayette County Public Schools canceled all weekend activities ahead of the storm’s arrival and canceled Monday classes for all students, who will instead learn from home.
Friday, major grocery retailers told the Herald-Leader they were stocking shelves to meet demand ahead of the storm. While none reported imminent early closures, many representatives said they were monitoring the weather.
Other closures across KY
A number of government offices have announced Monday closures that could affect some Fayette County residents.
Several county courthouses have closed Monday, including Barren, Bath, Bracken, Breckenridge, Bullitt, Caldwell, Daviess, Christian, Fleming, Garrard, Harrison, Jessamine, Johnson, Lawrence, Logan, Lyon, Martin, Mason, Menifee, Metcalfe, Montgomery, Morgan, Rowan, Todd and Union counties.
Notices will be sent out regarding changes to court cases and dockets.
The Kentucky General Assembly also announced proceedings in Frankfort set for Monday have been canceled due to inclement weather.
This story was originally published January 24, 2026 at 5:27 PM.
