Cape Girardeau, Mo. – Severe thunderstorms are expected to peak between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Friday across the Missouri Bootheel and communities along and south of the Ohio River, bringing the potential for large hail, damaging wind gusts, and a brief tornado.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, the highest risk area includes southeast Missouri, far southern Illinois, and western Kentucky. Timing varies by location, with storms arriving in Poplar Bluff between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., reaching Paducah around noon, and moving toward Owensboro and Madisonville by late afternoon.
Winds could gust between 60 to 80 mph, and hailstones may exceed 1.5 inches in diameter. The Storm Prediction Center rates the tornado risk as low but not zero—especially for areas directly under the enhanced threat zone. Drivers on I-55, I-24, and U.S. Route 60 should stay alert for sudden visibility drops and debris.
Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, avoid unnecessary travel during peak storm hours, and keep mobile devices charged in case of power outages. Schools in some districts may opt for early dismissals depending on conditions by midday.
Threats should taper off this evening, but cold air funnels and small hail remain possible through the weekend. Further updates are expected later today.
