Paducah, KY – Southeast Missouri, southern Illinois, and western Kentucky are under an active Flood Watch beginning Wednesday, April 2, as multiple rounds of torrential rain threaten flash flooding and widespread disruptions through Sunday morning, April 6.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, KY, up to 1 foot of total rainfall could fall across the region. The Flood Watch impacts dozens of counties and cities, including Paducah, Mayfield, Marion, and Cape Girardeau. Rainfall will peak between Wednesday evening and Friday, with chances of storms continuing into Saturday. Local highways, including I-24 and US-60, are especially vulnerable to water pooling and possible closures.
Heavy downpours and severe thunderstorms may lead to river and creek overflows, street flooding, and washed-out low-lying roads. Residents are urged to monitor updates, avoid flooded areas, and prepare emergency kits.
Timeline and Local Impacts:
- Wednesday (April 2): Thunderstorms arrive by afternoon with gusts up to 46 mph. Chance of rain: 40%.
- Wednesday Night–Friday: Rainfall becomes widespread and intense. Flash flooding is likely overnight.
- Saturday (April 5): Showers continue, tapering off by late Saturday night.
Five-Day Paducah Weather Outlook:
- Wednesday: High 84°F, storms late.
- Thursday: Heavy rain. High 70°F.
- Friday: Showers and storms. High 73°F.
- Saturday: Showers, breezy. High 73°F.
- Sunday: Drying out. High near 61°F.
