Paducah, KY – A strong cold front moving through the region today will bring widespread rain, gusty winds, and isolated thunderstorms to parts of western Kentucky, southern Illinois, southeast Missouri, and southwest Indiana, according to the National Weather Service.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, numerous showers are expected throughout the day, with rainfall totals between 0.20 and 0.60 inches possible. A few isolated rumbles of thunder may develop as the front passes, though severe storms are not expected.
Winds will also be a major factor. Forecasters say gusty south to southwest winds will develop ahead of the front, then shift behind it later today. Wind gusts of 25 to 40 mph could make driving difficult for high-profile vehicles and may blow around unsecured outdoor objects, including holiday decorations.
Temperatures will begin to drop late today, leading to below-normal highs on Friday. However, the cooler air will be short-lived. The National Weather Service says temperatures will moderate over the weekend, with a warming trend continuing into next week. Highs are expected to climb back into the 50s and even near 60 degrees by early next week, remaining 10 to 15 degrees above normal for late December.
Communities potentially impacted include Paducah, Cape Girardeau, Carbondale, Evansville, Hopkinsville, Murray, Poplar Bluff, and New Madrid.
Residents are advised to use caution while driving in heavy rain, watch for slick roads, and secure loose items ahead of the strongest winds. While unsettled weather may linger at times, conditions are expected to improve heading into the weekend.
