Lexington, KY — A tornado watch is in effect until 6 a.m. CDT Thursday across parts of Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Alabama as a strong line of storms pushes through the region overnight.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, the watch covers Central and Eastern Kentucky, Middle Tennessee, Northern Mississippi, and Northwest Alabama. The primary threats include a few tornadoes—some potentially intense—along with scattered wind gusts up to 70 mph and hail up to 1.5 inches in diameter.
Emergency management officials urge residents to remain alert as the storms pass through. While some weakening is expected, atmospheric instability combined with strong wind fields continues to pose risks.
Communities in and around Lexington, Nashville, Tupelo, and Florence should monitor local alerts, ensure cell phones are charged, and have a safe shelter plan in place. Tornado watches mean conditions are favorable for tornado formation.
The watch spans an area approximately 55 miles east and west of a line stretching from near Lexington, KY, to south of Oxford, MS. Stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio and local media for further updates.
