Jackson, Kentucky – Scattered thunderstorms and dense fog are set to disrupt travel and daily routines across eastern Kentucky as a strong cold front pushes through the region Thursday into Friday. Temperatures will drop sharply after days of intense heat, and drivers can expect hazardous conditions—especially in valley areas—tonight and through the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Jackson, a surge of showers and storms will develop from the northwest Thursday afternoon, with rain chances ranging from 20% to 60% into Friday. Overnight, fog will form in many valleys, sharply reducing visibility on roads such as the Hal Rogers Parkway and KY-80. The high humidity will break, bringing cooler, drier air for the first days of August.
Communities from Hazard to Pikeville could see brief downpours and gusty winds. Lows will tumble into the mid-60s by Friday night, with highs only reaching the upper 70s and low 80s by Saturday. Residents are urged to limit non-essential travel after sunset, use headlights in fog, and allow extra time for morning commutes. Keep mobile devices charged and watch for updates in case of rapidly changing conditions.
Warnings remain in effect through Saturday night, with the next advisory possible if storms persist or fog worsens.
Five Day Eastern Kentucky Weather Outlook:
- Thursday: Partly sunny, showers and storms (20-60% SE-NW), highs 88–93°F
- Tonight: Showers, storms, valley fog (20-50%), lows 64–70°F
- Friday: Scattered showers tapering off, partly sunny, highs 77–82°F
- Friday Night: Partly cloudy, river valley fog, lows 57–64°F
- Saturday: Isolated showers/storms (10-20% SE), mostly to partly sunny, highs 77–82°F
- Saturday Night: Mostly cloudy, fog, a few showers (10-20% S), lows 58–66°F
