A developing weather system could bring a light wintry mix to parts of the lower Ohio Valley Tuesday night through Wednesday night, though confidence in impacts remains low at this time.
According to the U.S. National Weather Service in Paducah, forecast models are showing a growing signal that a disturbance may pass near or just south of the region during the middle of next week. If current trends continue, temperatures may be cold enough to support a mix of snow, sleet, freezing rain, or plain rain, depending on location and timing.
Forecasters emphasize that minor snow or ice accumulations cannot be ruled out, especially during overnight or early morning hours when surface temperatures are coldest. However, it is too early to determine whether travel impacts will occur, as small shifts in the storm track or temperature profile could significantly change precipitation types and amounts.
Areas potentially affected include portions of western Kentucky, southeast Missouri, southern Illinois, and southwest Indiana, particularly along and near major travel corridors such as I-24, I-55, I-57, and I-69. Any wintry precipitation that does develop is expected to be light and spotty, rather than a widespread winter storm.
The National Weather Service notes that forecast confidence should improve over the coming days as higher-resolution data becomes available. Residents are encouraged to monitor forecast updates closely, especially those with travel plans late Tuesday or Wednesday.
Even light accumulations of ice or snow can lead to slick roads, bridges, and overpasses, particularly during overnight hours. Drivers may want to plan for extra travel time and remain alert to changing conditions if wintry precipitation materializes.
Temperatures across the region will remain seasonably cold through early next week, which may allow any frozen precipitation to linger longer on untreated surfaces.
This potential midweek system may be most noticeable for overnight commuters, early-morning drivers, and school transportation schedules, depending on how the forecast evolves.
Updates will continue to be issued by the National Weather Service as confidence increases.
