Paducah, Kentucky – A light wintry mix could impact parts of the lower Ohio Valley Tuesday, with slick travel possible on bridges and overpasses during the morning and early afternoon hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, forecasters are monitoring the potential for a mix of freezing rain, snow, and rain developing Tuesday morning and continuing into the day. Confidence remains fairly low, as the bulk of precipitation may stay east and south of the region, but light impacts remain possible if precipitation develops locally.
The weather service notes that temperatures initially below freezing could allow light freezing rain to occur, mainly between 7 a.m. and 11 a.m.. In this scenario, a light glaze of ice could form in a few areas, especially on elevated and untreated surfaces.
There is also potential for light snow accumulation, primarily across northern portions of the region, including parts of southern Illinois and southwest Indiana. Snow amounts, if they occur, are expected to be minor, generally a dusting to less than one-half inch, with most areas transitioning to rain as temperatures rise above freezing.
Major travel corridors including Interstate 24, Interstate 69, Interstate 55, US-45, and US-60 could see isolated slick spots, particularly on bridges, overpasses, and ramps. The National Weather Service cautions that even minimal ice can lead to hazardous driving conditions.
Forecasters emphasize that some slick spots cannot be ruled out, even if precipitation is brief or light. Conditions are expected to improve as temperatures climb later in the day.
The remainder of the week is forecast to be dry, with temperatures running warmer than recent days, though still below normal for early February except possibly Friday.
Early-morning commuters, students, and long-distance drivers may experience the greatest impact due to timing. Residents are encouraged to monitor forecast updates as confidence and details improve.
