Paducah, KY – A dangerous tornado watch is in effect across southern Illinois, western Kentucky, and southeast Missouri until 8 p.m. CDT Friday, placing more than 30 counties at risk for life-threatening storms and possible tornadoes.
According to the National Weather Service, Tornado Watch 376 was issued at 1:25 p.m. CDT and includes Alexander, Johnson, and Union counties in Illinois; Ballard, Graves, and McCracken counties in Kentucky; and Cape Girardeau and New Madrid counties in Missouri. Cities like Paducah, Marion, Metropolis, Cape Girardeau, and Hopkinsville are urged to prepare for rapidly changing conditions.
Widespread instability and high moisture levels could lead to the development of rotating thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes, large hail, and damaging wind gusts. Residents in the watch zone should ensure their phones are charged, have a shelter plan ready, and stay tuned to local media or NOAA weather alerts. Travel is discouraged during active warnings.
This is the first major tornado watch of June for the tri-state area and comes amid an active severe weather pattern stretching from the Ozarks to the Ohio Valley.
Warnings may be upgraded if storms strengthen. Stay weather-aware through tonight.
