Paducah, Kentucky –Tornadoes, large hail, and intense winds are expected to hammer western Kentucky today, putting drivers and residents across the I-24 corridor at serious risk.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect through 9 a.m. CDT Friday, with another round of dangerous storms likely to develop this afternoon into the evening. Supercells could bring strong tornadoes, wind gusts over 60 mph, and golf ball-sized hail to the region. Counties under alert include McCracken, Graves, Christian, Calloway, and Ballard, among others.
Those in Paducah, Mayfield, and Murray should stay off roads during storm windows and ensure cell phones are fully charged in case of power loss. Officials warn the entire area to monitor warnings closely and be prepared to take shelter quickly.
By Friday afternoon, skies may temporarily clear before a more dangerous line of storms develops. These are expected to track northeast across southern Illinois and western Kentucky. Wind gusts in excess of 60 mph and brief tornadoes remain the main concern through tonight.
Looking Ahead:
Saturday brings a welcome break with sunny skies and highs near 83°F. However, a new storm system may arrive Sunday night, bringing more thunderstorms into early next week. Rain chances return Tuesday and Wednesday, with temps dropping into the low 70s by midweek.
5-Day Spring Weather Outlook for Paducah:
- Friday: Severe storms, high near 88°F
- Saturday: Sunny and calm, high 83°F
- Sunday: Thunderstorms likely by night, high 82°F
- Monday: Partly sunny, storm chance late, high 83°F
- Tuesday: Thunderstorms return, breezy, high near 72°F
