Madisonville, KY – Strong winds are forecast to hit Southern Illinois and Western Kentucky tonight, with a wind advisory in effect until 1 a.m. Saturday. Gusts may reach up to 50 mph, creating hazardous conditions, particularly for drivers on US-41. Residents are urged to secure loose outdoor items and avoid travel during the advisory.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, the strongest winds are expected between 9 p.m. and midnight, posing a risk of falling tree limbs and downed power lines. Ground already saturated from recent rainfall may increase the likelihood of trees toppling, potentially blocking roadways. Drivers should exercise extreme caution, as debris on roads could make travel dangerous.
While winds are expected to calm by mid-Saturday, lighter gusts could linger through Sunday. Residents should prepare for potential power outages overnight and check local alerts for updates on road conditions. For the rest of the weekend, weather should stabilize, with clearer skies forecasted by Sunday afternoon. Stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure safety as these winds move through the region.