KENTUCKY — Several Kentucky school districts could face multiple closures next week as a series of winter storms moves across the Midwest and Ohio Valley.
Forecasters are tracking three separate systems expected to impact the region beginning this weekend and continuing into midweek.
While the storms are not expected to match the intensity of the historic blizzard that struck parts of the East Coast earlier this week, they could still create hazardous travel conditions across Kentucky.
The first wave is expected to pass mainly north of the state, but some areas could see light snowfall late Saturday into early Sunday. Accumulations from this system are expected to be limited.
The greater concern for Kentucky comes with the second storm, forecast to develop Sunday night into Monday. Warmer, moisture-rich air from the Gulf is expected to override colder air near the surface — a setup that often produces freezing rain and ice.
Based on current projections, the highest icing threat could impact areas along and north of the Interstate 64 and Interstate 70 corridors, but portions of northern and central Kentucky remain in the potential impact zone. Forecasters caution that small shifts in the storm track could significantly affect where snow transitions to freezing rain.
Even minor ice accumulation can make rural and secondary roads dangerous for school bus travel. In past events, similar setups have led to multi-day closures due to lingering icy conditions and refreezing overnight.
A third system is expected Tuesday into Wednesday. While some areas may see mostly rain, colder air trapped near the surface could allow additional icing or light snowfall, especially in northern Kentucky.
With three systems forecast in quick succession, school officials across the state are closely monitoring conditions. Consecutive rounds of winter weather could force multiple-day cancellations in some districts.
Families are encouraged to stay alert for updates from local school systems as forecasts become clearer in the coming days.
