Paducah, KY – Residents should prepare for a round of severe weather late Wednesday, which will be followed by a significant weekend heatwave. The primary concerns for Wednesday evening include the potential for large hail and damaging winds capable of causing power outages and property damage. An isolated tornado cannot be entirely ruled out as the system moves through the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, the greatest risk for severe thunderstorms will arrive late in the day Wednesday and continue into the night. The weather office has advised that storm spotters may be activated. This multi-state system is expected to impact communities across southern Illinois, western Kentucky, and southeast Missouri, creating hazardous conditions.
Storm chances will decrease after 1 a.m. Thursday, leading into a mostly sunny Juneteenth with a high near 87 degrees. However, the relief will be short-lived. A weekend warmup will introduce a more dangerous weather pattern. By Saturday and Sunday, sunny skies will be accompanied by oppressive heat. Heat indices are expected to reach between 100 and 105 degrees, creating dangerous conditions for outdoor activities and vulnerable populations. Residents should plan to stay hydrated and find ways to keep cool.
Safety officials urge everyone to have multiple ways to receive weather alerts, especially on Wednesday night. Be prepared for the abrupt shift from spring-like storms to intense summer heat. Additional advisories for the weekend heat are likely to be issued later this week.
Here is a look at your five-day forecast:
- TUESDAY: [Partly cloudy] with a high near 86.
- WEDNESDAY: [Showers and thunderstorms likely after 1 p.m.] with a high near 90.
- THURSDAY: [A slight chance of showers] with a high near 87.
- FRIDAY: [Sunny] with a high near 90.
- SATURDAY: [Sunny] with a high near 94.
