Paducah, KY – Breezy conditions across the Quad State region could push wildfire smoke closer to the ground Tuesday, prompting a Lake Wind Advisory from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. CDT.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, wind gusts between 20 and 26 mph will sweep through parts of western Kentucky, southern Illinois, southeast Missouri, and southwest Indiana. The strongest gusts are expected near Mount Vernon, Marion, and St. Louis, where peak winds may top 26 mph.
Cities like Cape Girardeau, Paducah, and Madisonville are likely to see sustained breezes over 20 mph, potentially making skies hazy as wildfire smoke mixes downward. Gusty winds may also create choppy conditions on lakes, making boating hazardous during the advisory window.
Residents are encouraged to limit time outdoors if sensitive to smoke or poor air quality, especially during the afternoon hours. Boaters should use caution and consider postponing trips on area lakes until winds subside.
This is the first Lake Wind Advisory of June for the region, as high pressure and dry air help transport smoke from western wildfires eastward. The advisory is expected to expire by 7 p.m., though further air quality statements may follow if haze lingers.
