Paducah, Ky. – Hot, humid weather will continue across the Quad State through the weekend, with daily rounds of showers and thunderstorms capable of producing dangerous lightning and brief heavy rainfall during the afternoon and early evening hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, scattered showers and thunderstorms will develop each day through Sunday, primarily from late morning into early evening. The most widespread activity on Friday and Saturday is expected east of the Mississippi River, affecting portions of western Kentucky, southern Illinois, southwest Indiana and northwest Tennessee.
Afternoon high temperatures will range from 88 to 95 degrees through the weekend, while humidity pushes heat index values between 98 and 105 degrees. Communities including Paducah, Murray, Mayfield, Madisonville, Evansville, Cape Girardeau and Carbondale should prepare for a combination of oppressive heat and slow-moving thunderstorms capable of producing torrential downpours, frequent lightning and localized ponding on roads.
Anyone with outdoor plans should monitor the sky closely, move indoors immediately when thunder is heard and remain inside for at least 30 minutes after the last rumble. Residents are also encouraged to drink plenty of water, take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the afternoon.
Storm chances will gradually become more isolated on Sunday before hotter conditions continue into early next week. The National Weather Service will continue monitoring the pattern and may issue additional advisories if heat or stronger thunderstorms become a greater concern.
