The National Weather in Jackson updated their winter weather forecast to include a high wind advisory into Monday.

“Along with the potential for heavy mixed precipitation tonight into Monday; wind gusts of 20 to 30+ mph could cause hazardous travel and additional power outages; especially in areas that see more significant ice and snow loading on trees and branches,” they posted.

The effects of Winter Storm Blair started being felt across the Tri-State area Sunday morning.

The city of Middlesboro issued the following statement on the weather on their Facebook page:

“As Middlesboro prepares for the upcoming snow and ice conditions, we want to remind everyone to stay safe and take precautions during this inclement weather. Please continue to monitor the weather through our regional and local broadcasting. Hazardous road conditions are expected, so please limit travel unless absolutely necessary, and if you must drive, do so with caution.

We would also like to take a moment to highlight and thank our incredible First Responders and Street Department workers who are out there working tirelessly to keep our community safe. Whether it’s responding to emergencies, clearing roads, or ensuring essential services continue, these dedicated individuals are on the front lines in challenging conditions.

Let’s show them our support by:

Staying off the roads as much as possible to give them space to work.

Preparing your homes and checking on neighbors to reduce unnecessary emergencies.

Being patient as road crews work to clear and salt streets for safer travel.

Stay warm, stay safe, and let’s keep each other in our thoughts.”

Icing was reported on roads around Middlesboro by noon, including the Beltline where at least two vehicles slid off the roadway in two different spots.

By 1 p.m. the Kentucky Personnel Cabinet announced building closures for Monday.

“Due to the inclement weather, Governor Beshear is closing all Executive Branch state office buildings Monday, January 6, 2025. Executive Branch agencies will continue to provide services to the citizens of the Commonwealth; therefore, essential employees designated for mandatory operations and those able to work remotely should continue to report for work,” the post read.

Fire Chief Tim Howard of the Bell County Volunteer Fire Department shared that roads were still slippery shortly after 5 p.m.

“If you don’t have to be out on the roads, please stay home. If you should lose power contact the proper utilities company and they will get to you as soon as they can,” he said. “Lastly, many people are using space heaters in their homes to stay warm. Please keep objects away from the heaters as these objects can catch fire if they are too close. Stay warm and and be safe!”

Bell County and Pineville Independent schools were already out on Monday for professional development in services. Middlesboro Independent Schools will also be out due to the bad weather and Monday will be NTI Day #4. Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College will also have virtual learning on Monday.

The Bell County Courthouse will be closed on Monday due to the icy weather.

“While the Bell County old courthouse and Sheriff’s Department will be closed on Monday the 6th, we are still patrolling the area roadways and encourage you to use extreme caution as you travel,” the Sheriff’s Department shared in a Facebook post. “As always, if you have an emergency, please call 911. The non-emergency line is 606-337-6174.”