Paducah, KY – A soggy and potentially dangerous start to the week is underway for western Kentucky. Persistent showers and thunderstorms have created a significant risk for flash flooding that will extend into the morning commute this morning. Residents should prepare for hazardous road conditions and the possibility of rising water in low-lying areas. The immediate threat is heavy, sustained rainfall on already saturated ground.
According to the National Weather Service, a Flood Watch remains active for McCracken County and much of the surrounding region until 10 a.m. Tuesday. Forecasters warn that slow-moving thunderstorms are capable of producing excessive downpours. This could cause creeks, streams, and rivers to rise quickly. Areas with poor drainage are especially vulnerable to flash flooding during this period. Motorists are strongly advised to avoid driving through flooded roadways.
After the flood threat diminishes Tuesday morning, the day will bring partly sunny skies with a high near 87 degrees. However, the wet pattern is not over, as a 30% chance of scattered showers and thunderstorms remains. The rain becomes more widespread again on Wednesday, when temperatures are expected to reach 90 degrees.
For the Juneteenth holiday on Thursday, residents can expect another chance of thunderstorms with a high temperature of 87 degrees. The weather pattern finally shifts heading into the weekend. Skies will begin to clear Thursday night, leading to a mostly sunny Friday with a high climbing to 91. Sizzling summer heat arrives for the weekend, with a forecast high of 94 degrees under sunny skies on Saturday.
A look at the five-day forecast reveals a transition from storms to heat:
- Tuesday: High 87°F, Lingering storm chance after morning flood risk.
- Wednesday: High 90°F, Showers and thunderstorms likely.
- Thursday (Juneteenth): High 87°F, Chance of thunderstorms.
- Friday: High 91°F, Mostly sunny.
- Saturday: High 94°F, Sunny and hot.
