Kentucky wakes up under gray skies as damp pavement glistens across western communities. For now, the air feels mild. That changes quickly as a sharper winter pattern begins to take shape by Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, rain chances increase today and continue into Thursday. Highs climb into the upper 50s, making it feel more like late fall than December. Gusty southwest winds may push showers through quickly, especially by afternoon and early evening. Keep rain gear handy and plan for slower travel during heavier bursts.
By Thursday night, skies clear and colder air settles in. Temperatures fall into the mid-20s by early Friday morning. That drop raises concerns for refreezing on roads, bridges, and sidewalks. Any leftover moisture could turn slick fast, even without snow. Drivers should use caution during early morning travel.
Friday turns bright but colder. Sunshine returns, yet highs struggle into the low 40s. The crisp air signals a true winter transition. Friday night stays cold, with lows near freezing once again.
Saturday offers a brief rebound. Highs reach the mid-50s under mostly sunny skies. Melting moisture during the day may refreeze again after sunset, continuing the black ice risk.
By Sunday, clouds increase with a slight chance of showers. Temperatures remain mild, topping out near the low 50s. Looking ahead, meteorologists are tracking colder air north of Kentucky. While no snow is expected locally yet, models hint at a more active winter pattern heading into Christmas week.
Five-Day Outlook (Paducah, KY):
• Thursday: Showers, breezy, high near 58
• Friday: Sunny, colder, high near 41
• Saturday: Mostly sunny, high near 56
• Sunday: Slight rain chance, high near 52
• Monday: Mostly sunny, cooler, high near 52
