Paducah, Ky. – Scattered thunderstorms will continue to pop up across western Kentucky and surrounding areas through Thursday, keeping skies unsettled and travel occasionally wet. By Friday, a shift to hot, dry conditions is expected, with temperatures climbing well above normal into the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, locally heavy rainfall and lightning will be the main hazards during these midweek storms. Areas such as Cape Girardeau, Evansville, and Hopkinsville could see the most persistent downpours through Thursday afternoon. Storm coverage will diminish late Thursday night as drier air moves in from the west.
Daytime highs will remain near seasonal averages in the low to mid-90s through Thursday before soaring toward the upper 90s and near 100 in some spots this weekend. The combination of heat and humidity could push heat index values even higher, making early morning or evening outdoor activities the safest option.
Residents are advised to monitor for isolated strong storms, especially during peak heating hours, and avoid outdoor activities during lightning. The hot, dry stretch is expected to persist into early next week, with rain chances staying low.
