Gov. Beshear provides weather update for Feb. 20, confirms 15 deaths

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Gov. Andy Beshear has provided an update as winter weather continues across much of Kentucky.

On Thursday, the governor said the state is moving from the emergency search-and-rescue phase to the stabilization phase.

“I want to take a moment to recognize how, in Kentucky, we always look out for our neighbors, and I have seen this once again in response to this natural disaster,” Beshear said. “You all inspire me, and once again the world has seen just how kind and compassionate Kentuckians are.”

Beshear also confirmed Thursday morning that the weather-related death toll has reached 15 people.

Kentucky, please add another family to your prayers as we just confirmed a weather-related death out of Livingston County. We’ve now lost 15 people, each one a child of God who will be missed by their loved ones. Let’s show those mourning they’re not alone and we love them.

— Governor Andy Beshear (@GovAndyBeshear) February 20, 2025

The governor thanked first responders, the Kentucky State Police, Kentucky National Guard, Kentucky Fish and Wildlife and Kentucky Transportation Cabinet workers, as well as local police, fire and emergency managers, other states, volunteers and more.

Beshear says after some light snowfall overnight in parts of central and western Kentucky, as well as freezing temperatures, the precipitation is mostly over.

However, frigid temperatures will continue through Friday morning,

This follows flooding throughout Kentucky over the weekend. To view a list of flooded roads in the viewing area, click here.

Kentuckians should follow warning signs, should not drive around barricades and should never drive through standing water.

For those who need shelter during frigid temperatures, a list of warming centers that have opened this week within the viewing area can be found here.