Paducah, KY – A major severe weather event is expected to impact Kentucky, Illinois, Missouri, and Indiana starting Wednesday afternoon, with supercells likely to bring strong tornadoes, damaging winds, large hail, and significant flooding from torrential rainfall.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, the Quad State region is forecast to receive widespread rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches through Friday, with localized amounts between 4 and 8 inches possible—especially across western Kentucky, southern Illinois, southwest Indiana, and southeastern Missouri. Storms are expected to initiate Wednesday, April 2, and continue in multiple waves through Friday, significantly increasing the threat of flash flooding and river rises.
Areas including Paducah, Cape Girardeau, Poplar Bluff, Evansville, and Marion are at elevated risk for both severe weather and heavy rain. In addition to tornadoes and hail, prolonged periods of thunderstorms may lead to rapid flooding of creeks, streams, and urban low-lying areas.
Residents are urged to monitor local alerts, secure loose outdoor items, and review emergency shelter plans. Those in flood-prone zones should prepare for potential evacuation. Authorities warn that conditions could evolve quickly, and multiple hazards may occur simultaneously.
