Paducah, Kentucky – Residents in western Kentucky should brace for the potential of damaging winds, large hail, and a few tornadoes as a two-day severe weather threat looms beginning Thursday afternoon. Cities like Paducah, Mayfield, and Cape Girardeau face the greatest risk by Friday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) for severe thunderstorms is in place both Thursday, May 15, and Friday, May 16, primarily during the late afternoon and evening hours. Friday carries the higher threat due to a more favorable environment for storm development.
The impacted region spans a large swath of western Kentucky, southeast Missouri, and southern Illinois, including Owensboro, Hopkinsville, Carbondale, and Poplar Bluff. Forecasters note a strong “cap” could delay storm development Thursday, but any storms that do form may rapidly intensify.
Travelers should monitor conditions closely, especially during evening commutes. Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, prepare for power outages, and keep weather radios or alerts activated overnight.
Storms may continue to evolve with updates expected as early as Wednesday night. Additional watches or warnings may be issued if storm conditions become more organized.
