Jackson, Kentucky – Showers and thunderstorms will gradually increase across eastern Kentucky this weekend as warm temperatures continue across the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Jackson, most showers and thunderstorms Friday will remain mainly north of the Mountain Parkway, though isolated storms could still develop in nearby communities.
Temperatures will remain well above normal through Saturday, with afternoon highs expected to reach the upper 70s to low 80s across much of eastern Kentucky.
Cities including Hazard, Pikeville, Morehead, and London may see warm and humid conditions ahead of a more widespread round of rain and storms.
Meteorologists say a larger area of showers and thunderstorms is expected to develop Saturday and continue into Saturday night as a weather system moves through the region.
Rain and storms may then gradually taper off from northwest to southeast during the day Sunday, bringing improving conditions later in the weekend.
Drivers traveling along major routes including Interstate 75, U.S. Highway 23, and the Mountain Parkway could encounter periods of heavy rain, lightning, and reduced visibility, especially Saturday evening and overnight.
While widespread severe weather is not guaranteed, thunderstorms may still produce brief downpours and gusty winds as the system moves across the area.
By Sunday, cooler air moving into the region will bring high temperatures back into the 60s, ending the brief stretch of near-record warmth.
Overnight temperatures will also cool significantly, with lows dropping into the 40s and low 50s by Sunday night.
Residents with outdoor plans this weekend should monitor updated forecasts, particularly Saturday evening when rain and thunderstorms become more widespread.
Students, travelers, and weekend commuters across eastern Kentucky could see changing weather conditions as the storm system passes through the region.
