Louisville, Kentucky – Strong to severe thunderstorms could disrupt the late Thursday commute across central Kentucky, with wind gusts up to 60 mph and an isolated tornado threat developing along I-64 and I-65 between mid-afternoon and late evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Louisville, a strengthening low pressure system moving toward the western Great Lakes will draw warm, moist air into the region Thursday. Scattered showers and storms are expected to develop ahead of an approaching cold front, with the best timing from 3 p.m. through 10 p.m.
In Louisville and Jefferson County, storms may intensify quickly as they move east from southern Indiana into north-central Kentucky. Damaging straight-line winds are the primary concern, capable of knocking down tree limbs and causing isolated power outages. An isolated tornado cannot be ruled out, particularly where storms interact along the boundary.
Farther east toward Lexington along I-75, and south toward Bowling Green along I-65, storms are expected later in the afternoon and evening. Brief heavy rainfall may reduce visibility on major corridors including the Western Kentucky Parkway and Blue Grass Parkway. Small hail is also possible in stronger cells.
Residents should secure outdoor furniture, review severe weather safety plans and ensure multiple ways to receive warnings before storms arrive. Charge phones and avoid unnecessary travel during active warnings. Additional watches may be issued Thursday morning as confidence increases in storm coverage and intensity.
Warnings could be posted quickly once storms begin to organize Thursday afternoon.
