Jackson, Ky. – Drivers and overnight travelers across Kentucky could face rapidly developing thunderstorms as early as 6 p.m. Sunday, with storms intensifying into a line that sweeps across the state before sunrise Monday.
According to the National Weather Service in Jackson, a strong cold front will push in from the northwest late Sunday, triggering isolated storms near the Ohio River by early evening. These storms are expected to organize into a line after dark and track south-southeast through 6 a.m. Monday, with the highest severe potential north of Interstate 64.
Cities including Louisville, Frankfort, and Lexington sit in a zone where large hail and wind gusts up to 60 mph are possible during the evening hours. As the line pushes southeast toward Morehead, Jackson, and Pikeville overnight, storms may weaken slightly but still produce gusty winds and brief heavy rain capable of reducing visibility on mountain roads.
Emergency managers urge residents to secure loose outdoor items and keep phones charged in case of isolated power outages. Motorists should avoid nighttime travel on exposed roadways like I-64 and U.S. 23 during peak storm activity.
Storm intensity may fluctuate overnight, but alerts could be issued quickly as conditions evolve through early Monday morning.
