Paducah, Kentucky – Drivers along I-24 and US-60 should prepare for two rounds of thunderstorms Wednesday, with the first arriving before sunrise and a stronger wave targeting the afternoon and evening commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, scattered storms may develop between 4 a.m. and 10 a.m. Wednesday, mainly near and north of I-64. While this early round is expected to remain below severe limits for most areas, small hail up to nickel size cannot be ruled out.
The greater concern builds after 2 p.m. Wednesday as warmer air pushes temperatures into the upper 60s and lower 70s. That added instability could support strong to severe thunderstorms through 9 p.m., especially across western Kentucky and southern Illinois. Wind gusts may reach 60 mph, capable of downing tree limbs and causing isolated power outages. Hail up to one inch in diameter is possible with the strongest cells, and a brief tornado cannot be completely ruled out.
Communities along I-69, the Purchase Parkway and US-45 should stay alert during the late afternoon drive. Heavy downpours may also produce brief visibility drops below one mile and minor flooding in low-lying areas.
Secure outdoor furniture, charge mobile devices and review your severe weather safety plan before storms develop. Additional watches or warnings may be issued with little notice Wednesday afternoon as conditions evolve across the region.
