Paducah, Kentucky – Light freezing drizzle or light snow could create slippery travel conditions across parts of the lower Ohio Valley early Tuesday, particularly during the morning commute.
According to the National Weather Service Paducah, temperatures will begin the day below freezing, allowing for light freezing rain to develop primarily between 7 a.m. and 11 a.m. Tuesday. While precipitation amounts are expected to be very light, even minor icing could lead to slick spots on untreated roads and elevated surfaces.
Forecasters say temperatures are expected to warm above freezing by around 11 a.m., which should gradually reduce the threat for additional icing. However, a frost depth of 2 inches or more may allow freezing drizzle to linger briefly on colder surfaces even after air temperatures rise above freezing.
The greatest concern is for early travel along I-24, I-69, US-60 and US-62, including areas near Paducah, Evansville, Henderson and Cape Girardeau. Bridges, overpasses and secondary roads may become slick before pavement temperatures have time to warm.
The National Weather Service noted that pavement temperatures should trend toward or above freezing later in the morning, which may limit overall travel impacts. Still, confidence remains low regarding exact placement, and a light glaze of ice is possible in some locations.
Farther south into southeast Missouri and western Kentucky, precipitation is expected to fall mainly as rain, though isolated slick spots cannot be ruled out early in the day.
Drivers are encouraged to plan for slower travel Tuesday morning, allow extra time, and remain alert for changing road conditions, especially before mid-morning.
The National Weather Service advises residents to continue monitoring updates as small temperature changes could significantly affect travel conditions.
