Jackson, Kentucky – Residents across eastern Kentucky should prepare for the potential of severe thunderstorms Tuesday, with damaging straight-line winds posing the greatest threat. Storms could produce wind gusts strong enough to down trees, damage power lines and create dangerous travel conditions, particularly if one or more lines of thunderstorms develop during the day.
According to the National Weather Service in Jackson, the severe weather threat is in effect from 8 a.m. EDT Tuesday through 8 a.m. EDT Wednesday. Forecast guidance indicates the primary hazard will be damaging wind gusts up to 70 mph, with isolated stronger gusts possible in the most intense storms.
While destructive winds are the main concern, forecasters also warn that hail up to around quarter size (1 to 2 inches) and isolated tornadoes cannot be ruled out. The tornado threat is expected to remain limited but is highest with any discrete thunderstorms that develop ahead of the main line.
Communities including Jackson, Hazard, Pikeville, Prestonsburg, Morehead, London, Somerset and surrounding areas should closely monitor the weather throughout Tuesday. Motorists traveling along the Mountain Parkway, Hal Rogers Parkway, Interstate 64 and U.S. 23 should be prepared for sudden heavy rain, strong crosswinds and possible downed trees or debris if severe storms move through.
Now is the time to review your severe weather safety plan, secure loose outdoor objects and make sure you have multiple ways to receive warnings, especially if storms arrive after dark. Additional watches or warnings may be issued Tuesday as confidence in the timing and intensity of the storms increases.
