The residents of Henderson, Robards and Corydon all got the notice of an ice storm on its way in the coming days during January 2025. People learned from the 2009 ice storm to prepare for the freeze. That meant preparing for no electricity, roads being blocked by trees, power lines and other debris. They knew to stock up on food, to have their medications and to shelter in place or be ready to shelter elsewhere.
As the cold snap set in, snow and ice quickly accumulated, making roads treacherous. Vehicles slid off the roadway, and two-car accidents became common, keeping wrecker companies busy. The dangerous conditions triggered a surge in Henderson’s 911 calls.
Ice continued to build on trees, causing many to snap. Some fell onto homes, while others blocked neighborhood streets and highways.
The hazardous conditions kept the Henderson County Road Department, Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and Public Works crews working to clear fallen trees and plow snow and ice so first responders could reach emergencies safely.
The freeze also led to widespread power outages, affecting homes and businesses. Basic necessities quickly became a concern. Restoring power, water, heating, and communications were critical. With temperatures remaining well below freezing, many residents relied on generators or sought shelter elsewhere.
Henderson Emergency Management (EM) had prearranged sheltering at the Salvation Army and the American Red Cross at The Gathering Place. The Harbor House and Father Bradley homeless shelters opened under the White Flag Program, and Robards City Hall operated as a daytime warming center.
Shelters quickly filled. EM staff made multiple trips to deliver additional cots and blankets as needed.
Some residents were in dire need of help. Many were medically fragile and depended on electric-powered equipment they no longer had. Others called 911 because they were weak or feared slipping on the ice while trying to reach their vehicles. Emergency Management requested assistance from local fire departments and the Rescue Squad to transport them safely to shelters.
As temperatures remained dangerously low, several local restaurants stepped up to support first responders. Their contributions became a lifeline for crews working long hours to protect the community. From sandwiches and snacks to full meals, the restaurants ensured those on the front lines had the nourishment they needed. Their generosity provided not only food, but also a much-needed boost in morale during a difficult time.
Meals were also donated to shelters, offering comfort and a sense of warmth to those displaced by the storm.
As temperatures began to rise and the ice slowly melted, cleanup of downed trees and debris became the next priority. The United Way established a Crisis Cleanup Hotline to assist with recovery efforts. Volunteer groups—including Christian Aid Ministries, Masters of Disasters and Southern Baptist Disaster Relief—offered their services to cut fallen trees and limbs and stack them for pickup.
Whether serving as first responders or working in public service departments to clear roads, tow vehicles, restore power or deliver food, the community’s swift response to the ice storm was nothing short of heroic. Despite the freezing conditions, determination never wavered. Essential services such as mail delivery and trash collection continued without interruption.
The residents of Henderson, Robards and Corydon embodied the true spirit of togetherness, supporting one another through a time of crisis.
Acknowledgement of Appreciation: Jersey Mikes, Tacoholics, Cancun Mexican Restaurant and Cap & Cork for their generous donation of meals for first responders.
Jill Ward is the Henderson County Office of Emergency Management director’s assistant.
