Paducah, KY – Parts of western Kentucky are under a Tornado Watch this afternoon and evening as severe storms move through the region, with the threat expected to continue until 9 p.m. Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, Tornado Watch No. 643 was issued at 3:45 p.m. EST and includes 12 counties across western Kentucky. Meteorologists say conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes, damaging straight-line winds, and isolated large hail as strong thunderstorms advance eastward.
Counties included in the watch are Ballard, Caldwell, Crittenden, Daviess, Henderson, Hopkins, Livingston, Lyon, McCracken, McLean, Union, and Webster. The watch area impacts communities along the Ohio River, including the Paducah metro area, as well as nearby rural counties bordering Illinois and Indiana.
Forecasters warn that storms may strengthen quickly during the late afternoon and early evening hours, increasing the risk for brief tornadoes and intense wind gusts capable of downing trees and power lines. Residents are urged to monitor weather alerts closely, keep cell phones charged, and ensure they have multiple ways to receive warnings, especially after dark.
A tornado watch means conditions are favorable for tornado development, but tornadoes have not yet been confirmed. If a tornado warning is issued for your area, seek shelter immediately in a basement or interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building, away from windows.
Motorists should also be prepared for rapidly changing conditions, including heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and reduced visibility on roadways.
