Lexington, Kentucky is facing a low probability of a white Christmas this year, according to the latest outlook from the National Weather Service in Louisville. With less than a 10% chance of having at least one inch of snow on the ground by 7 a.m. on Christmas Day, residents may need to adjust their holiday expectations.
The forecast indicates warmer-than-normal temperatures for the remainder of December, coupled with below-normal precipitation. These factors contribute to a diminished likelihood of heavy snowfall, a trend consistent with historical weather patterns across Central Kentucky. Areas in Northern and far Eastern Kentucky experience slightly higher probabilities, ranging from 10 to 25%.
Despite this outlook, the National Weather Service cautions that light snow and cold snaps may still occur, which can lead to challenges like slippery roads, particularly during peak travel times. Minor snow accumulations can cause significant disruptions, even when they do not meet the criteria for a white Christmas.
The month of December is expected to be drier overall, yet there is a fair chance of wetter-than-normal conditions during the week of Christmas. Forecasters maintain moderate to high confidence that snowfall will remain below average as the month progresses.
Historically, the last white Christmas in Lexington was recorded in 2022, when an arctic blast brought extreme cold and wind chills, marking it as an anomaly. In 2020, a light dusting of half an inch occurred on Christmas Day, though this is generally not indicative of typical weather for the season.
As Lexington prepares for the holidays, the consistent warmer-than-average temperatures are predicted to continue into early January, with colder weather potentially returning later in the month. For residents hoping for a traditional snowy holiday backdrop, the outlook may lead to a reassessment of festivities.
For further inquiries about local weather, the service journalism team is available to assist with questions.
