Paducah, KY – A powerful storm system is triggering a tornado watch across parts of Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, and Missouri through 10 p.m. CDT Friday, putting more than 50 counties at risk for damaging winds, large hail, and possible tornadoes.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, Tornado Watch 265 remains in effect until 10 p.m. CDT (11 p.m. EDT), covering a broad swath of the lower Ohio Valley. Areas under alert include southern Illinois from Jefferson to Massac County, southwest Indiana including Evansville and Gibson County, and nearly two dozen counties in western Kentucky such as McCracken, Daviess, and Christian. Southeast Missouri counties including Scott, New Madrid, and Stoddard are also under watch.
Storms are expected to rapidly intensify into the evening, particularly along the I-24 and I-69 corridors. Residents in cities such as Paducah, Marion, Carbondale, and Cape Girardeau should have multiple ways to receive warnings and prepare for sudden severe weather.
Officials urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel, secure loose outdoor items, and remain indoors if warnings are issued. Schools and emergency managers across the region are on high alert.
The tornado watch will expire at 10 p.m. CDT, but additional warnings or watches may be issued as storms evolve into the overnight hours. Stay tuned to local alerts.
