Paducah, Kentucky – Thunderstorms and heavy showers swept across western Kentucky early Friday, soaking roads in Paducah, Madisonville, and Owensboro with rain chances topping 85% before noon. Commuters faced slick conditions during the morning rush, but drier air is expected to arrive by evening, setting the stage for a calmer weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, a weak storm system moved through the Quad State region overnight, delivering widespread rain and occasional lightning. Rain probabilities reached 90% in places like Henderson and Marion by 6 a.m., with showers tapering off steadily throughout the afternoon as a cold front advances.
The rain has already impacted several routes, including stretches of U.S. 60 and the Pennyrile Parkway, where visibility and traction were reduced during peak morning hours. By Friday evening, most cities in the region will see a dramatic drop in rain chances—down to 5–10%—with cooler, more stable air following.
While the weekend looks mostly dry and pleasant, isolated showers could return briefly Sunday near Cape Girardeau and southeast Missouri. Monday is expected to be warm and dry, but a new round of severe weather looms. Forecasters warn of heavy rain and potential severe storms Tuesday through Thursday next week.
Stay alert for updated watches and advisories as the new system develops.
