Saturday Storms Could Bring Damaging Winds and Flash Flooding Across Southern Illinois and Western Kentucky
PADUCAH, KENTUCKY — The National Weather Service (NWS) in Paducah is warning residents to prepare for a potential severe weather event on Saturday, with forecasts calling for strong storms, heavy rainfall, and localized flash flooding across parts of southern Illinois and western Kentucky.
According to the NWS, Thursday and Friday will mark the last stretch of warm, dry weather before the weekend system moves in. Highs are expected to reach the low 80s through the end of the week, setting the stage for a stormy Saturday.
Storm Threat Begins Saturday Afternoon
Meteorologists say thunderstorms will likely develop by Saturday afternoon and continue through Saturday night, bringing periods of heavy rain and strong winds.
“The intensity could be enough to trigger flash flooding in low-lying or flood-prone areas,” the NWS said in its latest update.
Saturday’s high temperature is expected to reach around 84 degrees, but increasing humidity and storm energy could create conditions ripe for isolated severe storms.
Damaging Winds Are the Primary Concern
While a lack of atmospheric instability may limit widespread severe storm development, forecasters caution that damaging winds will be the main hazard if stronger storms form.
“If severe storms do develop, damaging winds would be the primary concern,” meteorologists noted, adding that heavy rain could still cause flooding issues even without significant wind damage.
The NWS’s rainfall outlook shows the potential for up to two inches of rain across some areas between Saturday and Sunday, with excessive rainfall maps highlighting the highest risks in parts of western Kentucky and southern Illinois.
Cooler Air Moves In After the Storms
Rain is expected to taper off early Sunday, with a gusty northwest wind ushering in cooler and drier air. Afternoon highs on Sunday will drop to around 67 degrees, and Monday morning temperatures could fall to the upper 40s.
Looking ahead, forecasters predict milder weather next week with highs in the 70s and a slight chance of showers by Tuesday.
Residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts, check for weather alerts, and avoid driving through flooded areas during heavy rain.
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