Owensboro residents should prepare for a cold and potentially snowy start to 2025, as forecasts from the National Weather Service (NWS) in Paducah signal a shift to Arctic conditions later this week and into the weekend.
Information was gathered from multiple forecasts and outlook messages from the National Weather Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
A cold front is expected to pass through the region on Tuesday, bringing light rain and possible thunderstorms overnight. Highs will range from the upper 40s to low 50s, but temperatures will steadily drop, with daytime highs dipping to the 30s and low 40s by New Year’s Day. Lows could plummet into the low 20s by the weekend.
The NWS forecasts “seasonably colder” weather through the week, but attention is focused on a developing weather system expected late Sunday. While confidence remains low on the exact track of this system, forecasters caution that snow, ice, or freezing rain are all possible. Even minor accumulations could cause significant travel disruptions across Owensboro and the Ohio Valley.
The bigger concern from weather forecasters lies in the extended outlook. An Arctic outbreak is expected to spread across the eastern United States from January 7–12. Owensboro could see dangerously low wind chills and subfreezing temperatures during this period, with highs likely struggling to reach 40 degrees. Wind chills could drop below zero if winds intensify.
According to the NOAA Climate Prediction Center, the greatest risks will occur from January 9–11, when cold air from Canada is projected to sweep across the Ohio Valley and much of the eastern U.S. This pattern is expected to increase the risk of heavy snow across parts of Kentucky, particularly in areas downwind of the Great Lakes, where lake-effect snow could enhance accumulations.
What this means for Owensboro:
- Travel disruptions are possible Sunday night into Monday if frozen precipitation occurs.
- Dangerous wind chills could increase the risk of frostbite for anyone spending extended time outdoors.
- Homeowners should take precautions to prevent frozen pipes, and farmers may need to protect livestock.
- Local officials urge residents to monitor forecasts and follow winter safety tips provided by the NWS.
Forecasters emphasize that the storm system’s track will determine whether Owensboro experiences primarily rain, snow, or ice. The NWS will issue updates as the system approaches. For now, residents should remain vigilant and prepare for the possibility of winter weather.
For more information on winter preparedness, visit the NWS Winter Preparedness Checklist at weather.gov/media/arx/winter/WinterPrepare.pdf.
