Paducah, Kentucky – Damp pavement glistens under low clouds this morning as December continues its slow pivot toward winter. Mild air still lingers, but changes ahead could catch drivers off guard by midweek.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures climb into the 50s Wednesday before a round of widespread rain arrives Thursday, December 18th. Showers could be steady at times, briefly reducing visibility and creating ponding on roadways during the late morning and afternoon commute. Gusty southwest winds may add to the unsettled feel.
By Thursday evening, colder air pushes in quickly. Temperatures fall toward the low 30s overnight, setting up a classic December concern. Wet roads from daytime rain could refreeze, especially on bridges, overpasses, and untreated side streets. Black ice becomes a real risk heading into early Friday.
Residents should plan ahead now. Allow extra drive time Thursday evening and early Friday morning. Keep coats, gloves, and windshield washer fluid ready. Even a thin glaze can make braking unpredictable.
Wednesday stays mostly dry and mild, offering a short window to prepare. Clouds thin at times, and highs reach the low-to-mid 50s. That warmth, however, may speed the freeze risk once temperatures drop.
Friday brings sunshine but a noticeably colder feel. Afternoon highs hover near 40 degrees, with brisk air reinforcing the early winter pattern. Friday night turns colder, dipping near 30 under mostly clear skies.
The weekend improves for outdoor plans. Saturday and Sunday trend mostly sunny and milder, with highs climbing back into the mid-50s. Still, late nights remain chilly, reminding travelers that winter driving hazards can return quickly after dark.
Looking ahead to Christmas travel week, this warm-to-cold pattern is an early sign of December’s volatility. Models hint at additional rain chances and temperature swings into early next week.
Driving Thursday or Friday? Let us know what conditions look like in your neighborhood.
5-Day Snapshot for Paducah, KY
- Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, highs near 54°
- Thursday: Showers likely, highs near 57°
- Friday: Sunny, colder, high near 39°
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high near 55°
- Sunday: Partly sunny, high near 54°
