Paducah, KY – The National Weather Service in Paducah is warning residents across western Kentucky and southern Illinois to brace for the coldest air of the season early next week.
A surge of Arctic air will move into the region Sunday night, bringing widespread hard freeze conditions through Tuesday morning. Forecast lows will dip into the lower to mid-20s Monday morning, with wind chills dropping into the teens — possibly as low as 12°F in some areas. Temperatures will remain cold into Tuesday, with highs struggling to climb out of the 30s.
According to the NWS, these conditions will likely end the growing season across the area. Residents are urged to protect outdoor plumbing, pets, and sensitive vegetation, and to ensure heating systems are in good working order.
The agency also advises finding winter gear now, as wind chills will make conditions feel sharply colder Monday and Tuesday mornings.
