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Snowfall: Introduction
In contrast to states farther north, heavy snowfalls are not common in
Kentucky. Instead, most winter precipitation falls as rain. When snow does
arrive in Kentucky, accumulations are usually light, particularly in the
southern and western portions of the state. Still, winter storms occasionally
leave Kentucky's landscape buried underneath a deep blanket of snow.
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Photo Credit: K. Dewey/High Plains
Regional Climate Center |
Kentucky's location makes it vulnerable to heavy snowfall. Its proximity to
the Gulf of Mexico provides a necessary moisture source, yet it is far enough
north to be influenced by polar air masses. Low-pressure systems that bring
heavy snow to Kentucky usually track eastward across the southern United States
before turning toward the northeast. Frequently, these systems move up the east
coast and have little affect on Kentucky. Sometimes however, storms turn and
move along the western margin of the Appalachian Mountains. With cold air in
place over Kentucky, these storms bring moisture from the Gulf of Mexico and can
dump heavy snow as they plow through the Commonwealth.
Snow can be a deceptive hazard. While many people look forward to the season's
first snowfall, a major snowstorm can cause significant disruption to daily
activities for Kentuckians. Because many people and communities in Kentucky are
not accustomed to major snowstorms, it is important to be prepared when they do
occur.
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