Paducah, Kentucky – Crisp air cuts across western Kentucky this MLK Day as winter tightens its grip early, pushing wind chills into the teens and leaving untreated pavement slick before sunrise. Drivers heading out this morning will notice dry roads in spots, but shaded areas and bridges remain vulnerable to black ice as temperatures struggle to recover.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, wind chills dipped into the single digits earlier, with air temperatures hovering in the mid-20s. Northwest winds gusting over 20 mph add bite to the cold, especially along open roadways and rural stretches of McCracken County. Officials continue urging caution during early travel, even as sunshine dominates the day.
Conditions stay quiet but cold through tonight, allowing temperatures to fall near 10 degrees. Tuesday brings a noticeable warmup into the upper 30s, yet the relief is brief. Clouds increase by Tuesday evening as a developing system approaches, setting the stage for changing conditions midweek.
By Wednesday morning, rain showers could develop before colder air works back in. That transition raises concern for a rain-to-snow switch, especially north and east of Paducah. Even light snow or slushy accumulation could trigger flash freezing Wednesday night as temperatures drop back below freezing. Wet pavement may refreeze quickly after sunset, increasing the risk of spin-outs on I-24, U.S. 60, and secondary roads.
Beyond midweek, colder air lingers. Another round of light snow chances extends into Friday and Saturday as winter remains firmly in control across the Ohio Valley. Meteorologists are monitoring additional disturbances that could refine snow timing and impacts.
Traveling or heading out today? Allow extra time this morning, keep winter layers handy, and watch for slick patches after dark. How cold did it feel in your neighborhood today?
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Paducah, KY
• Today (MLK Day): Mostly sunny, high near 26°F. Gusty northwest winds.
• Tuesday: Sunny and milder, high near 39°F.
• Wednesday: Chance of rain changing to snow, high near 47°F.
• Thursday: Mostly sunny, colder, high near 41°F.
• Friday: Slight chance of snow showers, high near 35°F.
