Latest forecast trends indicate that an intense line of severe thunderstorms will move into southwestern Illinois and southeast Missouri around 7pm tonight. This line of storms will likely produce widespread wind gusts in excess of 80 mph. The damaging winds could last up to an hour.
Depending on their intensity and duration, the line could completely move through western Kentucky and the rest of the outlook area before midnight.
In addition to the damaging wind potential, isolated severe storms may develop ahead of this line later today. These storms would have the potential for large hail, damaging winds, as well as a tornado.
Every form of severe weather is possible, including damaging winds, large hail, and tornadoes. Heavy rainfall and deadly lightning will also be storm hazards.
Officials say the most uncertainty in the severe weather and flooding potential will occur between 3 am and 8 am Sunday morning. Where the cluster of thunderstorms stalls out overnight will determine where and when any severe weather could occur on Sunday.
Yesterday, meteorologist Rick Shanklin held a video briefing on Facebook Live detailing the weekend weather possibilities. That presentation is available at a link below.
Stay tuned to NOAA weather radio for updates through the weekend.
On the Net:
Paducah Weather Service webpageFacebook Live video discussion of weekend severe weather
