KENTUCKY — A developing storm system moving across the western United States could bring wintry weather to parts of Kentucky late this weekend into early next week, but forecasters say several factors will determine whether the state sees accumulating snow or mostly rain.
According to AccuWeather meteorologists, the storm is expected to move south along the West Coast on Thursday, cross the Rockies on Friday and track through the central United States on Saturday before approaching the eastern half of the country Sunday into Monday.
Whether Kentucky experiences significant snowfall will depend largely on two key elements: the availability of cold air and the exact track of the storm.
Forecasters say there may not be sufficient cold air in place when the storm develops, which could limit the potential for widespread snow. If temperatures remain marginal, precipitation that begins as snow in the upper atmosphere could melt before reaching the ground, resulting in rain or a wintry mix instead.
The path of the storm will also play a critical role. If it tracks farther inland, warmer air could be drawn northward into Kentucky, reducing the chance for heavy snow.
However, if the system tracks farther south and east, colder air could remain in place long enough for snow to accumulate, particularly in northern and eastern portions of the state.
Meteorologists are also watching for the possibility of a narrow band of heavier precipitation forming as the storm strengthens. Under the right conditions, that feature could bring a localized swath of heavier snowfall, though such setups are less common and difficult to predict far in advance.
Before the potential Sunday-to-Monday system arrives, multiple rounds of rain and wintry precipitation are expected across parts of the Midwest and Ohio Valley, which could influence ground temperatures and road conditions heading into the weekend.
Forecasters emphasize that confidence in snowfall amounts for Kentucky remains low at this time. Residents are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts over the next several days as the storm’s track and temperature profile become clearer.
