Lexington, Kentucky experienced its first snowfall of the season on Thursday morning, with snowfall starting around 9:30 a.m. Snow amounts varied across the region, with most areas receiving little to no accumulation. However, Central Kentucky is braced for heavier snowfall later in the day, expected to last into Friday morning.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has reported potential snowfall accumulation between a coating to two inches across most areas, with some higher elevation locations in Eastern Kentucky possibly accumulating up to five inches. Lexington holds a 52% chance of receiving at least an inch of snow, while chances increase significantly in Eastern counties such as Harlan and Letcher, which are forecasted to experience the most significant accumulation.
Accumulation is likely to affect primarily grassy and elevated surfaces, yet localized heavy snowfall could result in minor traces on roadways. From 4 p.m. Thursday to 7 a.m. Friday, a winter weather advisory will be in effect, as gusty winds of 30-35 mph combined with heavy snowfall may reduce visibility during the Thursday evening commute, particularly along Interstate 64, Interstate 75, and navigating downtown Lexington.
Snow showers are anticipated to become widespread by late Thursday afternoon and continue into the evening. Forecast snowfall throughout the period may range from a trace to around an inch, with some locations receiving up to two inches. Winds are expected to remain gusty, ranging from 30-35 mph.
By early Friday evening, snowfall is expected to taper off, though lingering flurries might still occur in the morning. In Eastern Kentucky, the storm is projected to shift towards rain by Friday afternoon, with some areas possibly seeing drizzle or freezing drizzle on Friday morning, though no significant impacts are anticipated.