The declaration authorizes the National Guard to help with relief efforts and empowers state officials to close roads in the interest of public safety.
A full day of rain on Wednesday meant it was impossible for road crews to prepare roads in advance of the snowfall that began about 4 p.m. CST and continued well into Thursday morning.
Heavy snowfall hindered road clearing efforts and Beshear urged Kentuckians to not travel if possible and to check in on elderly neighbors.
A statewide declaration does not automatically close schools and businesses. Residents should check local media for closing information.