Lexington, Kentucky, December 13, 2025
Lexington, Kentucky, is currently grappling with a severe winter storm that has resulted in hazardous road conditions and multiple traffic incidents. The Lexington Police Department responded to 32 accidents in just a few hours, urging drivers to exercise extreme caution. Meanwhile, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is actively working to clear roads and treat icy surfaces as temperatures drop precariously. City offices will open late due to the weather, as further snow is anticipated. Residents are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions.
Lexington, Kentucky, Faces Hazardous Snowstorm and Icy Conditions
Lexington, Kentucky – A severe winter storm has struck Lexington, leading to hazardous road conditions and numerous traffic incidents. Between midnight and 6 a.m. on December 12, 2025, the Lexington Police Department responded to 32 accidents, including 12 non-injury collisions, one injury collision, and two calls for motorist assistance. Drivers are urged to exercise extreme caution, allow extra travel time, and maintain a safe distance between vehicles to prevent collisions. Special attention should be given to bridges and overpasses, which are particularly susceptible to icing.
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) District 7 crews and contractors have been working overnight to clear snow and treat roadways. They are currently focusing on shoulders, turn lanes, crossovers, and ramps, as well as cleaning cross drains to prevent flooding. Motorists should be aware that extremely low temperatures can cause refreezing on wet pavement, leading to black ice formation. Bridges, overpasses, and ramps are especially prone to freezing before surface-level roadways.
City offices will open to the public with a delay at 10 a.m. on December 12. Additional snow accumulation is possible, and temperatures are expected to fall through the weekend, with wind chills potentially dropping below zero by early Sunday morning. Residents are advised to stay updated on weather conditions and take necessary precautions to ensure safety.
Winter Weather Advisory and Preparedness Measures
Lexington is under a Winter Weather Advisory from 7 p.m. on December 11 to 7 a.m. on December 12, with forecasts predicting 2-4 inches of snow and slick travel conditions. The city’s Division of Streets & Roads and Water Quality, along with contractor support, have been treating and plowing roads overnight. Day shift crews are scheduled to report at 7:30 a.m. Residents are encouraged to check on neighbors, especially the elderly, protect pets from the cold, and limit outdoor activities. If travel is necessary, drivers should proceed slowly and exercise extra caution.
University of Kentucky Operations Affected
The University of Kentucky is operating on a two-hour delay on December 12 due to inclement weather. In-person activities for students before 10 a.m. are canceled. UK HealthCare facilities remain open and are operating on a regular schedule. All other university employees (excluding UK HealthCare) are to report to work at 10 a.m. Facilities crews are working diligently to clear roads, parking lots, and sidewalks.
Additional Winter Weather Forecasts
A second winter system is expected to arrive late Saturday into Sunday, bringing more snow and arctic temperatures as low as zero degrees. Residents should prepare for continued winter conditions and stay informed through official channels.
Safety Recommendations
- Avoid non-essential travel if conditions are dangerous.
- Check the forecast and plan ahead for your trip.
- Ensure your vehicle is winterized, including checking the battery, antifreeze level, heater, defroster, wipers, and windshield washer.
- Dress warmly in layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing in anticipation of unexpected emergencies.
- Keep your gas tank at least two-thirds full to prevent fuel line freezing and in preparation for possible lengthy delays on the roadway.
- Inform a friend or relative of your travel route.
- Carry a cell phone.
- Equip your vehicle with an emergency care kit, including jumper cables, flares or reflectors, windshield washer fluid, an ice scraper, blankets, non-perishable food, a first aid kit, and traction material.
- Drive carefully, allowing plenty of time to reach your destination, and avoid using cruise control.
- Maintain a safe distance from snow removal equipment.
- Be aware that bridges and exit and entrance ramps can be icy when other areas are not.
- Remember that stopping in snow requires more braking distance than stopping on dry pavement—up to four times more distance. Leave plenty of space between yourself and the vehicle ahead.
- Use low-beam headlights in reduced visibility conditions.
- If you encounter a skid, stay calm, ease your foot off the gas, and steer into the skid.
FAQ
What is the current weather situation in Lexington, Kentucky?
A severe winter storm has led to hazardous road conditions, with the Lexington Police Department responding to 32 accidents between midnight and 6 a.m. on December 12, 2025.
What precautions should drivers take during this winter storm?
Drivers are urged to exercise extreme caution, allow extra travel time, and maintain a safe distance between vehicles. Special attention should be given to bridges and overpasses, which are particularly susceptible to icing.
How is the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet addressing the snowstorm?
KYTC District 7 crews and contractors have been working overnight to clear snow and treat roadways, focusing on shoulders, turn lanes, crossovers, and ramps, as well as cleaning cross drains to prevent flooding.
What are the upcoming weather forecasts for Lexington?
A second winter system is expected to arrive late Saturday into Sunday, bringing more snow and arctic temperatures as low as zero degrees. Residents should prepare for continued winter conditions and stay informed through official channels.
How is the University of Kentucky affected by the winter weather?
The University of Kentucky is operating on a two-hour delay on December 12 due to inclement weather. In-person activities for students before 10 a.m. are canceled, and all other university employees (excluding UK HealthCare) are to report to work at 10 a.m.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Winter Storm Impact | Severe winter storm leading to hazardous road conditions and numerous traffic incidents in Lexington, Kentucky. |
| Traffic Incidents | Between midnight and 6 a.m. on December 12, 2025, the Lexington Police Department responded to 32 accidents, including 12 non-injury collisions, one injury collision, and two calls for motorist assistance. |
| Road Treatment Efforts | KYTC District 7 crews and contractors have been working overnight to clear snow and treat roadways, focusing on shoulders, turn lanes, crossovers, and ramps, as well as cleaning cross drains to prevent flooding. |
| City Office Operations | City offices will open to the public with a delay at 10 a.m. on December 12. Additional snow accumulation is possible, and temperatures are expected to fall through the weekend, with wind chills potentially dropping below zero by early Sunday morning. |
| University of Kentucky Operations | The University of Kentucky is operating on a two-hour delay on December 12 due to inclement weather. In-person activities for students before 10 a.m. are canceled, and all other university employees (excluding UK HealthCare) are to report to work at 10 a.m. |
| Upcoming Weather Forecasts | A second winter system is expected to arrive late Saturday into Sunday, bringing more snow and arctic temperatures as low as zero degrees. Residents should prepare for continued winter conditions and stay informed through official channels. |
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