Louisville, KY, January 15, 2026
Heavy snowfall in Louisville and southern Indiana resulted in multiple accidents and significant traffic disruptions. Major highways were affected, leading to hazardous driving conditions. Authorities are advising caution while traveling and are working on road maintenance. The public transportation services faced delays and suspensions due to the winter weather. Residents are urged to stay informed and exercise caution on roads during these conditions.
Snowy Roads Lead to Multiple Crashes and Traffic Delays in Louisville and Southern Indiana
Louisville, KY – On Wednesday evening, January 14, 2026, heavy snowfall resulted in numerous accidents and significant traffic disruptions across Louisville and southern Indiana. The adverse weather conditions led to hazardous driving environments, causing multiple crashes and substantial delays on major highways.
Accidents and Traffic Disruptions
Several incidents were reported throughout the region:
- Interstate 65 South Ramp: A crash occurred on the ramp from I-64/I-71 to I-65 South, just outside downtown Louisville.
- Interstate 64 East: An accident took place under the Second Street Bridge in downtown Louisville.
- Interstate 65 North: A collision was reported near the I-64 interchange, close to the I-65 South ramp crash.
- Interstate 71 North: A crash in the area of I-265 in east Louisville led to traffic slowdowns at the I-265/I-71 interchanges.
- East End Bridge: Two semitrucks were stopped on the bridge, causing delays in both directions of I-265.
- Southern Indiana: Traffic cameras showed slowed traffic on I-65 North heading into Jeffersonville and Clarksville, as well as on I-265 North and South near Grant Line Road in New Albany. Additionally, delays were observed on I-65 North and South near Memphis, Indiana.
At this time, the number of injuries resulting from these incidents remains unclear. Authorities are advising motorists to exercise caution and stay updated on traffic conditions.
Weather Conditions and Road Maintenance
The snowfall led to slushy and icy road conditions, particularly on residential streets, posing challenges for drivers. Louisville Metro Public Works reported that it takes approximately six hours to treat roads in Jefferson County and 12 hours to plow roadways. Officials are urging motorists to allow extra time for travel and to maintain a safe distance from snowplows.
In response to the winter weather, the Transit Authority of River City (TARC) suspended services on Sunday and delayed the start of service on Monday until 9 a.m. Fixed bus route service continued on a limited basis due to difficult road conditions, with winter detours in place and service to Indiana suspended. Routes #2, 12, 22, and 52 were not in service, and TARC3 drivers faced difficulties reaching side streets. Customers were encouraged to delay trips if possible, with delays expected for any trips scheduled on Monday.
Safety Recommendations
Authorities are advising residents to stay home if possible and to exercise caution if travel is necessary. Drivers should allow extra time for their journeys, drive slowly, and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and snowplows. Monitoring local traffic updates and weather forecasts is recommended to stay informed about road conditions.
Background Context
Adverse weather conditions, such as snow and ice, can significantly impact road safety and traffic flow. In previous instances, similar weather events have led to hazardous driving conditions, accidents, and disruptions in the Louisville and southern Indiana areas. Road maintenance crews work diligently to clear roadways, but drivers are encouraged to remain vigilant and prepared during winter weather events.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What caused the traffic delays in Louisville and southern Indiana on January 14, 2026?
The traffic delays were caused by heavy snowfall, leading to hazardous driving conditions and multiple accidents on major highways.
Which areas were most affected by the snow-related traffic disruptions?
Major highways in Louisville, including Interstates 65, 64, and 71, as well as routes in southern Indiana such as I-65 North into Jeffersonville and Clarksville, and I-265 near Grant Line Road in New Albany, experienced significant traffic disruptions.
Were there any injuries reported from the accidents on January 14, 2026?
At this time, the number of injuries resulting from these incidents remains unclear. Authorities are advising motorists to exercise caution and stay updated on traffic conditions.
What measures are being taken to address the hazardous road conditions?
Louisville Metro Public Works is actively treating and plowing roadways, with an estimated six hours to treat and 12 hours to plow roads in Jefferson County. Motorists are advised to allow extra time for travel and maintain a safe distance from snowplows.
Is public transportation operating during the winter weather?
The Transit Authority of River City (TARC) suspended services on Sunday and delayed the start of service on Monday until 9 a.m. Fixed bus route service continued on a limited basis due to difficult road conditions, with winter detours in place and service to Indiana suspended. Routes #2, 12, 22, and 52 were not in service, and TARC3 drivers faced difficulties reaching side streets. Customers were encouraged to delay trips if possible, with delays expected for any trips scheduled on Monday.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | January 14, 2026 |
| Location | Louisville, KY, and southern Indiana |
| Cause | Heavy snowfall leading to hazardous driving conditions |
| Major Affected Routes | Interstates 65, 64, 71 in Louisville; I-65 North into Jeffersonville and Clarksville; I-265 near Grant Line Road in New Albany |
| Public Transportation Status | TARC suspended services on Sunday; delayed start on Monday until 9 a.m.; limited service with winter detours; service to Indiana suspended; Routes #2, 12, 22, and 52 not in service; TARC3 drivers faced difficulties reaching side streets; customers encouraged to delay trips if possible |
| Safety Recommendations | Stay home if possible; exercise caution if travel is necessary; allow extra time for journeys; drive slowly; maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and snowplows; monitor local traffic updates and weather forecasts |
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