Paducah, Kentucky – Storms capable of producing damaging winds and tornadoes could rapidly develop by late afternoon, putting the Quad State region at risk through tonight and into the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, scattered thunderstorms will develop late this afternoon and intensify into the evening, especially across southeast Missouri and southern Illinois. Some storms may produce wind gusts between 60 and 70 mph, large hail up to 1.5 inches, and a few tornadoes as they track northeast.
Cities including Cape Girardeau, Carbondale, Marion, and Paducah could see conditions deteriorate quickly after sunset, with heavy downpours reducing visibility along I-24 and I-57. Localized flooding is also possible as storms repeatedly move over the same areas.
Rain chances continue beyond tonight, with multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms expected through Saturday night. Total rainfall amounts between 1 and 2 inches are likely across much of western Kentucky, southern Illinois, and southeast Missouri, increasing the risk of standing water and minor flooding in low-lying areas.
Residents should secure outdoor items, monitor alerts closely, and be prepared to take shelter if warnings are issued. The severe threat will continue to evolve, with additional advisories possible through Saturday night.
