Paducah, KY — A decade-old rainfall record is in jeopardy across western Kentucky and southeast Missouri following a historic three-day downpour that continues into Saturday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, radar estimates show 10 to 13 inches of rain have fallen in portions of west Kentucky over the past 72 hours, with widespread totals of 5 to 8 inches. Another 1 to 4 inches is expected by Saturday night, with localized areas possibly receiving up to 6 more inches.
The current four-day rainfall record for the region stands at 15.53 inches, set in Williamsville, Missouri, in August 2016. Forecasters now say that record could be surpassed as the storm system lingers.
A “Slight Risk” (Level 2 of 5) of severe thunderstorms remains in place for western Kentucky and the Missouri Bootheel, bringing continued threats of flash flooding and isolated tornadoes.
Residents are urged to stay alert, avoid flooded roads, and have a plan to reach higher ground if needed. Flood watches remain in effect through Saturday night, and emergency services continue to monitor vulnerable areas across the 58-county forecast zone.
