Kentucky begins the day under a low, churning sky as fog mixes with early showers around Paducah. Streetlights glow against the mist, and wet pavement reflects every passing car as Thanksgiving travel accelerates across western Kentucky, southern Illinois, and southeast Missouri. The atmosphere feels heavy—an early signal of stronger storms building later today.
According to the National Weather Service, thunderstorms will be possible through the morning, mainly across southeast Missouri, before spreading east. A few storms may produce lightning and brief downpours, creating slowdowns along I-24, U.S. 60, and the Ohio River corridor. Drivers should reduce speed and expect sudden visibility drops, especially where fog lingers.
Rain becomes more widespread today and Friday, with thunderstorms again possible Friday morning into Friday night. Forecasters note a corridor of locally heavier rainfall may develop, which could lead to minor flooding in poor-drainage areas. To be fair, temperatures remain unusually warm for late November—topping out near 70 on Friday—adding extra fuel to the storm setup.
This warm, unsettled stretch marks a sharp contrast against the growing national Winter Tease. Meteorologists say models continue to hint at heavy snow potential somewhere across the northern U.S. between November 25 and December 3. While Paducah stays firmly in the warm sector for now, travelers heading north for Thanksgiving could encounter snow, wind, or major flight delays. Residents should watch for shifting travel advisories as the pattern evolves.
Saturday brings a break, turning partly sunny with highs in the low 60s. Sunday follows with sunshine and lighter winds—one of the best travel windows before another rain chance arrives early next week.
Five-Day Outlook (Fri–Tue)
• Friday: Showers and storms, high 71.
• Saturday: Partly sunny, high 63.
• Sunday: Sunny, high 65.
• Monday: Chance of showers, high 48.
• Tuesday: Showers likely, high mid-60s.
