The phenomenon of "exploding trees" is actually caused by frost cracking, which occurs when the sap wood behind the tree's bark freezes and causes the bark to expand open vertically through the tree.

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear is giving an update on weather conditions across the state and how the state is responding.

According to the latest totals from the National Weather Service, current as of 7 a.m. Monday, Jan. 26, Lexington saw 5.5 inches of snow over the weekend, while Louisville got 5.9 inches. In Southern Kentucky, Bowling Green got 3.5 inches of snow.

Temperatures remain freezing in the commonwealth as January nears its end. Will it warm up anytime soon?

As snow, sleet and ice continue to move across Kentucky, Gov. Beshear encouraged Kentuckians to stay off the roads and to seek help in the event of a power outage.

Wheel mark on snow surface at frosty winter day close up. Car tire pattern imprinted on snow-covered road. Empty rural roadway covered white frozen snow closeup. Wintertime suburban landscape. Source: Envato/By by stockbusters.

The University of Kentucky has announced its closure on Monday due to severe winter weather via a Facebook post.

Trash collection is suspended on Monday and will be delayed by a day for Rumpke customers and Cincinnati residents.

Ahead of Tuesday night’s game against Kentucky, Vanderbilt issued a travel warning to fans. The school encouraged caution amid the weather conditions in Nashville. Traffic lights near campus are still out,