Louisville, Ky. – Thunderstorms could bring gusty winds, small hail, and localized flooding from Louisville to Pikeville this afternoon into Sunday evening, prompting safety concerns across eastern and central Kentucky. Travel may be disrupted and outdoor plans should be reconsidered, especially in low-lying or flood-prone areas.
According to the National Weather Service in Jackson, storms are expected to develop later today, though forecasters note the exact coverage of storms remains uncertain. Any cells that form may produce brief but intense downpours, leading to isolated flash flooding, especially near creeks, hollows, and urban drainage basins.
Communities including Lexington, Morehead, Hazard, and Somerset are all within the risk zone. U.S. Route 23 and parts of the Mountain Parkway may see brief ponding or slick conditions during peak storm activity. “When thunder roars, head indoors,” NWS officials advised, emphasizing that lightning and small hail are also concerns during these scattered storms.
Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, charge mobile devices, and avoid driving through water-covered roads.
Storm activity is expected to taper off later this evening, though more rounds of rain and thunder are possible later this week. Additional updates will be issued as conditions evolve.