A powerful winter storm has turned Louisville’s roads into a nightmare, with blinding snow, black ice, and multiple crashes shutting down major highways.
A series of wrecks on Interstate 71 left drivers stranded for hours, forcing emergency crews to battle freezing conditions to clear the road. Officials are urging people to stay home, warning that more snow and ice could make travel even worse in the coming days.
Highway Pileups Bring Traffic to a Standstill
It started with a few minor fender benders, but as the snow kept falling and roads became slicker, the crashes started piling up.
On Tuesday night, parts of Interstate 71 turned into a parking lot after several multi-vehicle accidents involving cars, buses, and semi-trucks. Some drivers were stuck for over five hours, sitting in freezing temperatures with nowhere to go.
“I left work thinking I’d be home in 20 minutes. I’ve been sitting here for three hours,” one driver shared. “Cars keep sliding. Even the tow trucks are struggling.”
Authorities eventually cleared the wreckage, but the danger isn’t over. Ice continues to build up, and road crews are struggling to keep up with the storm.
Why the Roads Are So Dangerous Right Now
Louisville’s snowplows and salt trucks have been working non-stop, but temperatures are so cold that ice is refreezing faster than crews can clear it.
The worst areas are bridges, overpasses, and untreated back roads, where even 4WD vehicles are struggling to get traction.
Despite efforts to clear more than 110 snow routes, many roads remain icy and hazardous. Several schools and businesses have already announced closures, and officials say conditions may not improve for another 24 to 48 hours.
Travel Warnings—What You Need to Know
- Avoid driving unless it’s an emergency—Conditions are too dangerous for unnecessary travel.
- Check road conditions before heading out—Even main highways are risky right now.
- If you MUST drive, prepare for delays—Pack blankets, snacks, water, and a phone charger in case you get stuck.
- Watch out for black ice—Roads that look wet may actually be frozen solid.
Beyond Louisville: Winter Storm Wreaking Havoc in Other States
This massive winter storm isn’t just hitting Kentucky. Over in Arkansas, it’s causing:
- State office closures
- Hundreds of car accidents
- Power outages leaving thousands in the dark
With snow and ice still falling, more crashes and delays are expected.
What’s Next? Is More Snow Coming?
Meteorologists say this storm isn’t done yet. Another round of snow and ice is expected in the next 48 hours, which means conditions could get even worse before they get better.
Authorities are urging residents to stay off the roads, check on loved ones, and be prepared for more snow.