Paducah, KY – A significant warm-up is expected across western Kentucky and southeast Missouri next week, with temperatures climbing well above normal and approaching record levels in some locations, according to the National Weather Service in Paducah.
Forecasters say dry and seasonably chilly conditions will continue through the weekend, with daytime highs mainly in the upper 30s to mid-40s and overnight lows dipping into the 20s and lower 30s. That pattern is expected to change quickly beginning Monday as warmer air moves into the Ohio and Mississippi River valleys.
By early next week, high temperatures are forecast to rise 15 to 20 degrees above normal, with many communities reaching the lower to middle 60s on Tuesday and Wednesday. Some locations in western Kentucky, the Missouri Bootheel, and southern Illinois could see highs that approach or briefly exceed daily record values.
The National Weather Service notes that the warming trend will be accompanied by continued dry weather through at least Tuesday. A small chance of rain may develop late Wednesday, followed by a better opportunity for widespread showers Wednesday night into Thursday. Forecast confidence is increasing that rainfall amounts during that period could exceed one-quarter inch, though severe weather is not currently indicated.
Before the warm-up fully takes hold, a weak disturbance may bring light rain today and tonight to areas near the Missouri-Arkansas and Kentucky-Tennessee borders. Rainfall amounts with this system are expected to be minimal, generally less than one-tenth of an inch, with little impact.
Residents are encouraged to enjoy the milder stretch of weather next week but remain mindful of changing conditions as rain chances return. The sharp temperature contrast from recent cold may also increase snowmelt and wet ground conditions in some areas.
More forecast updates are expected as the midweek rain system approaches.
