Paducah, Kentucky — A prolonged stretch of dangerously cold weather will continue across western Kentucky, southern Illinois, and southeast Missouri through the weekend, according to the National Weather Service in Paducah. Residents should prepare for subzero wind chills, bitter overnight lows, and increased safety risks both outdoors and inside the home.
Forecast data shows minimum wind chill values dropping between -5°F and -10°F at times, particularly during the overnight and early morning hours. Cities including Paducah, Cape Girardeau, Evansville, Harrisburg, and Poplar Bluff will experience some of the coldest conditions, with the most severe wind chills occurring late Saturday night into early Sunday.
Major travel corridors such as Interstate 24, Interstate 55, Interstate 69, U.S. 60, and U.S. 45 will be affected. While dry conditions limit snow and ice concerns, the extreme cold can still pose hazards for motorists, including reduced vehicle reliability and increased danger during breakdowns. Drivers are urged to carry emergency kits and limit exposure if stranded.
The National Weather Service is emphasizing home heating safety as residents turn to alternative heat sources. Space heaters, fireplaces, wood stoves, and kerosene heaters significantly increase the risk of house fires and carbon monoxide poisoning if used improperly. Officials strongly advise keeping heaters away from flammable materials, never using grills or ovens indoors, and ensuring proper ventilation when using fuel-burning devices.
Health officials warn that frostbite and hypothermia can occur in as little as 15–30 minutes in these conditions. Residents should dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and limit time outdoors. Pets should be brought inside, and neighbors—especially the elderly—should be checked on regularly.
Temperatures are expected to gradually moderate early next week, but cold mornings will persist. Until then, caution and preparedness remain critical as the region endures one of the coldest stretches of the winter season.
