Kentucky — Cold air is surging back into western Kentucky as gusty northwest winds usher in a prolonged stretch of bitter winter weather across the Paducah region. Temperatures that began the day in the 40s are falling quickly, dropping into the 30s by afternoon as colder air pours in behind a cold front.
The sharper impact comes from the wind. Wind chills fall into the 20s by midafternoon, then dip toward 10 degrees by early Thursday morning, according to the National Weather Service. Conditions continue deteriorating through the weekend, with the coldest air expected Sunday morning, when wind chills approach zero or slightly below across much of the Quad State.
While snowfall will not be widespread, a small chance of light snow develops late Thursday night into early Friday, mainly north of Interstate 64 and toward the Evansville Tri-State. Any accumulation is expected to be light, but flurries and a brief dusting could coat elevated and untreated surfaces during the early morning hours. Multiple rounds of flurries may linger at times into the weekend.
Temperatures remain locked below normal through early next week. Highs struggle to climb out of the 30s, while overnight lows dip into the 20s and teens. Persistent northwest winds keep wind chills in the single digits and teens for several mornings in a row.
While no major travel disruptions are expected, exposed skin can become vulnerable quickly in these conditions. Prolonged time outdoors increases the risk of frostbite, especially during early morning hours. Drivers should remain alert for isolated slick spots on bridges and overpasses late Thursday night and early Friday.
This is the coldest stretch of weather Paducah has faced in weeks, and it arrives fast. Dress in layers, limit time outdoors, and check on vulnerable neighbors.
