Hazard, Ky. – Severe thunderstorms are expected to roll through eastern Kentucky this afternoon, with damaging winds and large hail threatening 35 counties under a Severe Thunderstorm Watch until 6 p.m. Friday.
According to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center, the watch includes communities such as Pikeville, London, Morehead, and Somerset. Wind gusts could reach up to 70 mph, and isolated hail up to one inch in diameter is possible as storms track northeast through the region.
Counties included in the watch stretch from Bell and Harlan in the southeast to Rowan and Bath in the northeast. Major roadways like I-75, the Mountain Parkway, and U.S. 23 may see hazardous travel conditions during peak commuting hours.
Residents are urged to secure loose outdoor items, charge mobile devices, and remain indoors during severe weather. Localized power outages and fallen tree limbs are likely in areas with stronger cells. Emergency management teams in several counties are on standby.
Storm intensity may vary through the afternoon, but threats are expected to persist into early evening. Additional warnings could be issued with little notice, so Kentuckians are advised to stay weather-aware and check for updates frequently.
