Jackson, Kentucky – Strong to severe thunderstorms could develop Thursday afternoon, bringing damaging wind risks across eastern Kentucky.
According to the US National Weather Service in Jackson, a warm front lifting north Thursday will bring unseasonably warm and unstable air into the region. That setup may support strong to severe thunderstorms, particularly from Thursday afternoon into Thursday night.
Forecasters say the greatest risk for severe weather exists generally along and north of a line from Wayne County to Martin County. Communities including Jackson near Kentucky Route 15, London along Interstate 75, Morehead near US-60, Hazard along KY-80, and Somerset near US-27 fall within the broader risk area.
The primary concern at this time is damaging wind gusts, though officials note that details remain uncertain. Morning cloud cover could limit how unstable the atmosphere becomes later in the day, potentially influencing storm intensity.
The National Weather Service emphasized that forecast confidence will improve as Thursday approaches. Residents are encouraged to monitor updates over the next 24 to 48 hours and review severe weather safety plans now.
Drivers along I-75 and other major roadways should be alert for rapidly changing conditions Thursday evening. Strong wind gusts can impact high-profile vehicles and reduce visibility during heavy downpours.
Students, commuters, and evening shift workers should ensure mobile devices can receive Wireless Emergency Alerts and identify safe shelter locations in advance in case warnings are issued.
Additional updates are expected as the system develops.
