Paducah, Kentucky –
A powerful winter storm is expected to sweep across western Kentucky and the surrounding tri-state region late Friday night, bringing heavy snow, bitter cold, and dangerous travel conditions that could persist through Sunday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, a Winter Storm Watch remains in effect from late Friday night through Sunday morning for western Kentucky, southern Illinois, southwest Indiana, and southeast Missouri. Snow totals between 7 and 13 inches are possible across much of the region, with southern portions of western Kentucky also facing periods of mixed precipitation and a light glaze of ice.
In Kentucky, McCracken, Graves, Marshall, Calloway, Christian, Hopkins, Henderson, Daviess, and surrounding counties could see prolonged snowfall that quickly covers roads. Paducah, Mayfield, Murray, Madisonville, Owensboro, and Hopkinsville are all at risk for severely impacted travel, especially on secondary roads and rural highways. Across the Ohio River, Evansville and surrounding parts of southwest Indiana may also see significant snowfall.
Beyond snow and ice, dangerously cold air will settle in behind the system. Wind chills Friday night could drop as low as 10 below zero in northern areas, with values remaining below zero again Sunday night. Officials urge residents to avoid non-essential travel, prepare winter emergency kits, and ensure pets, pipes, and vulnerable individuals are protected. Warnings may be issued as the storm draws closer, and hazardous conditions could linger into early next week.
