Weather
Kentucky-Illinois Weather Alert: Paducah 27° Freeze Nov. 12-16
Kentucky — Crisp northwest winds and a sharp temperature drop are bringing a winter reminder to the Paducah area. Temperatures could plunge from 58 degrees Thursday to 27 degrees Friday night, introdu
By Nora Whitfield · 2026-11-12T10:40:27.858Z
Kentucky — Crisp northwest winds and a sharp temperature drop are bringing a winter reminder to the Paducah area. Temperatures could plunge from 58 degrees Thursday to 27 degrees Friday night, introducing several freezing nights across western Kentucky and nearby southern Illinois.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, temperatures should reach approximately 58 degrees Thursday before colder air moves into the region.
A chance of sprinkles develops after 2 p.m., while northwest winds could gust to 23 mph.
The bigger change arrives Friday, when temperatures struggle to reach 49 degrees before falling into the upper 20s.
Temperatures Drop 31 Degrees Before Saturday Thursday afternoon brings increasing clouds and northwest winds around 10 to 15 mph.
Skies become mostly clear Thursday night, allowing temperatures to fall toward 32 degrees.
Friday, November 13, brings mostly sunny skies and a high near 49 degrees.
However, temperatures could tumble to 27 degrees Friday night.
That represents a 31 degree difference from Thursday's expected high.
For residents across McCracken County and the surrounding Ohio River Valley, the colder conditions could affect early weekend activities.
Drivers using Interstate 24, Interstate 69 and nearby river crossings should watch for isolated slick spots where moisture remains on untreated surfaces.
Widespread icy travel is not indicated, but freezing temperatures can create localized hazards.
Saturday Brings Sunshine, but Freezing Nights Continue Saturday, November 14, offers a brighter weather pattern.
Sunny skies should help temperatures reach approximately 50 degrees, with light northwest winds.
However, Saturday night temperatures fall near 27 degrees again.
Residents should protect sensitive plants and check exposed outdoor water sources.
The dry weather also provides an opportunity to finish leaf cleanup, secure decorations and prepare vehicles for colder November mornings.
Sunday and Monday Bring Gradual Improvement Sunday, November 15, continues the sunny trend.
Temperatures should climb toward 54 degrees, with light and variable winds.
Sunday night brings partly cloudy skies and a low near 29 degrees.
Monday offers another sunny day, with a high around 54 degrees.
Temperatures fall near 29 degrees Monday night, continuing the pattern of freezing conditions.
The repeated cold nights may be more noticeable than the relatively comfortable afternoons.
What About Snow Before Thanksgiving? The NOAA Weather Prediction Center reports that polar air is spreading across the eastern United States.
Below freezing temperatures are expected to reach portions of the Deep South by Saturday morning.
For Paducah, the supplied local forecast does not indicate snow through Wednesday.
Instead, the primary concern remains several freezing nights following Thursday's relatively mild temperatures.
Residents should continue monitoring updated forecasts as Thanksgiving approaches, but no local snowstorm is currently established.