Jackson, Kentucky – Multiple rounds of thunderstorms are expected to move across eastern Kentucky today and tonight, bringing torrential downpours that could trigger isolated flash flooding, especially in areas that receive repeated heavy rainfall. While not every community will experience flooding, rapidly rising water is possible where storms repeatedly track over the same location.
According to the National Weather Service in Jackson, most of eastern Kentucky is under a Marginal Risk (Level 1 of 4) for excessive rainfall through 8 a.m. Sunday. Atmospheric conditions are favorable for thunderstorms capable of producing very heavy rain, with the greatest flash flood concern focused on locations that receive multiple rounds of storms.
Forecasters say scattered thunderstorms will develop during the day, but a more organized line of storms is expected to move from north to south overnight. While the line may gradually weaken as it moves south, it will still be capable of producing torrential rainfall, frequent lightning and brief gusty winds.
Communities including Jackson, Hazard, Pikeville, Prestonsburg, Morehead, London, Paintsville, West Liberty and surrounding areas should monitor conditions closely. Low-water crossings, small creeks, poor-drainage locations and flood-prone roadways could quickly become hazardous if heavy rain persists.
Residents should avoid driving across flooded roadways, keep multiple ways to receive weather warnings and remain alert overnight when flooding is more difficult to recognize. Those living near flood-prone streams should be prepared for rapidly changing conditions.
The flash flood threat will continue through tonight into early Sunday morning, with additional Flood Advisories or Flash Flood Warnings possible if thunderstorms repeatedly move over the same areas.
