KENTUCKY — A 72-year-old woman in Whitley County has died from hypothermia as a winter storm and dangerously cold temperatures continue to impact Kentucky, state officials confirmed.
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said the woman, who has not been identified, died after prolonged exposure to extreme cold. Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing a dangerously low body temperature.
“Kentucky, I’ve got some sad news to share. We’ve confirmed one fatality in Whitley County with the passing of a 72-year-old woman due to hypothermia. Please join me in praying for her family during this difficult time,” Beshear said.
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 1,000 people across the United States died from hypothermia or excessive cold in 2023.
In an update Monday, Beshear said recovery efforts across the state are continuing and progress is being made as crews work to address needs in affected areas. He also emphasized the importance of safety as cold conditions persist.
More than 1,300 warming centers are currently open statewide. Officials are urging residents without power or adequate heat to seek shelter at a warming center to avoid further cold-related emergencies.
