Louisville, Ky. — Kentucky is facing a dangerous mix of severe flooding, heavy snowfall, and bitterly cold temperatures this week, causing significant disruptions and posing serious risks to residents across the state.
In a press conference held Wednesday morning in Frankfort, Governor Andy Beshear provided updates on the ongoing weather challenges, emphasizing that the state’s hardest-hit areas from flooding could receive an additional 3-4 inches of snow by Wednesday night. The added snow is expected to worsen the already hazardous conditions for both drivers and emergency personnel.
The Governor urged Kentuckians to exercise extreme caution, particularly with the dangerously low temperatures and the risk of hypothermia. “We are also dealing with dangerous cold,” Beshear said. “Please stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary.” In addition to the flooding and snow, the state is grappling with icy roads and difficult driving conditions that are expected to worsen through the night.
One of the most concerning issues remains drivers attempting to navigate flooded areas despite clear warnings. “Do not drive around barriers,” Beshear stressed during the conference. “They are there for your safety. Yesterday, we had multiple rescues, and nearly all of them involved people who drove around barriers and found themselves swept away by floodwaters. This puts not only your life at risk but also the lives of the first responders trying to help.”
Emergency services have been stretched thin, with rescue teams working around the clock to reach stranded motorists and assist those affected by the floods. The combination of swollen rivers and significant snow accumulation has made road conditions treacherous, particularly in rural areas.
Residents across the state have been urged to stay informed through local weather reports and to prepare for the possibility of power outages, which could complicate recovery efforts. State authorities continue to monitor the situation, with additional resources being deployed to the worst-hit areas.
As the storm system moves through Kentucky, officials are urging the public to remain patient, stay safe, and follow all safety guidelines.
