Jackson, Kentucky – Strong thunderstorms are expected to intensify this afternoon, bringing damaging wind gusts and large hail to eastern Kentucky, especially along and north of the I-64 corridor before the evening commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Jackson, scattered to numerous storms will expand in coverage through the afternoon, with the greatest intensity focused from Morehead to Ashland and west toward Mt. Sterling. A few storms could become severe between early afternoon and around 8 p.m., producing damaging wind gusts and hail large enough to dent vehicles.
Communities including Jackson, Hazard, and Prestonsburg may see repeated rounds of storms, increasing the risk of sudden downpours and localized travel disruptions. Drivers on I-64 and nearby routes should be alert for reduced visibility and debris on roadways during stronger cells.
Forecasters note a brief, isolated tornado cannot be ruled out, particularly in areas north of I-64 where storm organization may increase.
Storm chances continue into Thursday and Friday, with additional rounds possible this weekend as a cold front approaches, keeping eastern Kentucky in an active weather pattern.
