Lexington, Ky. – More than 80 Kentucky counties are under a Tornado Watch until 3 a.m. EDT Saturday as a line of severe thunderstorms moves eastward, raising the risk of nighttime tornadoes, large hail, and damaging winds.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, Tornado Watch 269 includes major population centers such as Lexington, Bowling Green, Covington, and Pikeville. The watch went into effect at 7:15 p.m. Friday and stretches through early Saturday morning as atmospheric conditions support rotating storms across central and eastern Kentucky.
Counties affected range from Boone and Fayette to Pike and Whitley, covering urban and rural areas alike. Residents in the I-75 corridor, including Richmond, London, and Corbin, should stay alert for rapidly changing weather and have multiple ways to receive warnings—especially overnight when tornadoes are harder to detect.
Drivers are urged to avoid travel during severe weather, and anyone in a mobile home or temporary structure should identify sturdier shelter options in advance. Emergency kits, charged devices, and weather radios are strongly recommended tonight.
This is the first widespread tornado threat in Kentucky this May. Additional watches or warnings may be issued through the night. Stay tuned to local weather sources and NOAA alerts for updates.
