Louisville, Kentucky – Hot, stormy conditions are expected across Kentucky this afternoon as a weakening cold front pushes through the Ohio Valley, bringing a surge of locally torrential rain, dangerous wind gusts, and potential flash flooding between 1 and 9 p.m. Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Louisville, the combination of oppressive heat and incoming storms could lead to heat index values between 100 and 105 degrees before thunderstorms erupt later today. The storms may bring frequent lightning, wind gusts over 50 mph, and intense rainfall capable of overwhelming drainage systems—especially across central and southern Kentucky.
Areas at greatest risk include the Bluegrass region, along with cities like Bowling Green, Elizabethtown, and Richmond. Portions of I-65 and I-75 may experience hazardous driving due to ponding water and reduced visibility. Emergency management officials urge residents to avoid flood-prone roads and secure outdoor items ahead of the storms.
Flash flooding is most likely where storms repeatedly track over the same areas. Power outages and downed limbs are also possible as winds strengthen into the evening.
Storms will taper off late tonight, but additional alerts may follow depending on Friday’s storm development.
