Paducah, KY – Flags whip and loose leaves scatter across driveways this morning as strong southwest winds gusting 25 to 40 mph rush across western Kentucky and southern Illinois. Forecasters warn that unsecured outdoor decorations, trash bins, and light holiday displays could be displaced as the day progresses.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, gusty winds will strengthen through midmorning before shifting west this afternoon as a cold front moves through the Quad State region. Sustained winds of 15–25 mph will continue through the day, with some gusts topping 40 mph along open stretches of road.
Drivers — especially those operating high-profile vehicles — should use caution on highways such as I-24 and U.S. 60, where crosswinds could make steering difficult. The winds will ease slightly tonight, but cooler air will filter in behind the front, setting up a noticeable temperature drop for the rest of the week.
By Friday, highs are expected to reach only the lower 50s before falling into the 20s at night. The weekend turns sharply colder with highs in the 30s and wind chills dipping into the single digits Sunday morning. Meteorologists call this the first “true December cold snap” for western Kentucky and parts of the lower Ohio Valley.
5-Day Outlook (Dec 10–Dec 14):
- Today (Wed): Windy and mild. High 48°F. Gusts 40 mph.
- Thursday: Partly sunny, cooler. High 42°F.
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high 52°F, low 24°F.
- Saturday: Cold and clear. High 42°F, low 15°F.
- Sunday: Frigid morning, high 30°F, wind chills near 5°F.
