Paducah, KY – Severe thunderstorms are expected to redevelop across the region late this afternoon and continue through tonight, according to the National Weather Service in Paducah. Storm development began early across southeast Missouri and southern Illinois and will shift southeast across western Kentucky through the evening hours.
A Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) has been issued for portions of southeast Missouri, far southern Illinois, and far western Kentucky—areas with the greatest chance of experiencing stronger storm activity.
Forecasters warn that several storms could become severe, with large hail up to 1 inch in diameter being the primary concern. Scattered 60 mph wind gusts are also possible, and meteorologists note that a tornado or two can’t be ruled out, especially across southeast Missouri and far west Kentucky where instability is higher.
The timing window for the strongest storms is 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., beginning earlier across the northwestern counties and exiting the Kentucky–Tennessee border area later in the evening. Heavy downpours may also accompany the strongest cells.
Storm intensity and coverage will continue to evolve into tonight, and residents are urged to monitor warnings closely and avoid driving through flooded or storm-damaged areas.
