Kentucky – Dark clouds build slowly over the Ohio River Valley this morning as mild spring air spreads across western Kentucky, setting the stage for a developing storm pattern that could bring rounds of rain and thunderstorms by midweek.
Calm conditions early today keep skies partly sunny around Paducah, with temperatures climbing toward 74°F by afternoon. Wet pavement and gusty southwest winds could briefly affect travel later today, especially along I-24 and U.S. 60 near the river crossings.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, isolated thunderstorms may develop later today, especially south of the Ohio River. Rain chances increase again tonight as moisture builds across western Kentucky and southern Illinois. Patchy fog could also form near dawn in low-lying areas and along river valleys.
Storm activity becomes more organized Tuesday. Showers may develop early in the morning before thunderstorms become more likely by afternoon and evening. Temperatures will push close to 79°F, creating a warm and humid environment that fuels stronger storms.
Meteorologists are watching Wednesday closely. Rain becomes widespread with a 100 percent chance of showers, and thunderstorms may intensify during the afternoon. Several rounds of rain could track over the same areas, raising the risk of localized flooding across western Kentucky, southern Illinois, and southeast Missouri.
Drivers should watch for water collecting along low-lying stretches of Interstate 24, U.S. 62, and rural roads near creeks and drainage areas. Keep phones charged and check alerts as the midweek system approaches.
Conditions improve quickly late week as cooler, drier air moves in. Sunshine returns by Thursday, offering a break before spring travel ramps up toward the March 20 start of the new season.
Five Day Outlook for Paducah, Kentucky
Monday: Partly sunny with a slight storm chance late. High 74°F.
Monday Night: Chance of showers and thunderstorms, patchy fog late. Low 62°F.
Tuesday: Scattered showers and storms developing. High 79°F.
Wednesday: Showers and thunderstorms likely. Rain chance 100%. High 74°F.
Thursday: Sunny and cooler. High 55°F.
