Paducah, Kentucky – A strong cold front is moving through the Mid-South today, bringing widespread rain, gusty winds, and a noticeable drop in temperatures by Friday. The unsettled weather is expected to affect parts of western Kentucky, southern Illinois, southeast Missouri, and southwest Indiana, according to the National Weather Service.
Forecasters say residents should prepare for wet roads, blustery conditions, and brief thunderstorms as the system passes through the region.
Cold Front Brings Rain and Isolated Thunderstorms
The National Weather Service office in Paducah reports that numerous showers will spread across the region throughout the day. Rainfall totals are expected to range between 0.20 and 0.60 inches, with locally higher amounts possible in heavier showers.
While the overall threat for severe weather remains low, isolated thunderstorms could develop as the cold front moves through. Officials emphasize that widespread severe storms are not expected, but brief downpours and lightning may occur in some locations.
Meteorologists note that rain coverage will be fairly widespread, making wet conditions likely for much of the Mid-South during the daytime hours.
Gusty Winds Create Travel and Safety Concerns
In addition to rain, strong winds will be one of the most impactful aspects of today’s weather. Ahead of the cold front, south to southwest winds are expected to increase, becoming gusty through the afternoon.
Wind gusts could reach between 25 and 40 mph, especially during the frontal passage. These conditions may cause difficulties for high-profile vehicles such as trucks, vans, and RVs, particularly on open highways.
Loose outdoor items, including holiday decorations, trash bins, and lightweight furniture, could be blown around by the strongest gusts. Residents are encouraged to secure items before winds peak later today.
Temperatures Drop Late Today and Into Friday
As the cold front moves east, cooler air will begin filtering into the region late today, with temperatures continuing to fall overnight. By Friday, highs are expected to run below seasonal averages, marking a noticeable change from the recent mild conditions.
Morning lows Friday could feel especially chilly due to lingering winds, making it feel colder than the thermometer suggests. This brief cool-down is expected to be the coldest stretch of the upcoming forecast period.
Weekend Brings Improvement and a Warming Trend
Despite the short-lived cold snap, the cooler air will not last long. According to the National Weather Service, temperatures will begin moderating over the weekend, with a steady warming trend continuing into early next week.
High temperatures are forecast to climb back into the 50s over the weekend, with some areas approaching near 60 degrees by early next week. These readings would be 10 to 15 degrees above normal for late December, signaling a return to milder conditions.
Rain chances are also expected to decrease heading into the weekend, allowing for more favorable outdoor conditions after today’s unsettled weather.
Areas Most Likely to Be Impacted
Communities across the Mid-South are expected to experience similar conditions as the system moves through. Cities and towns potentially affected include:
- Paducah, Kentucky
- Cape Girardeau, Missouri
- Carbondale, Illinois
- Evansville, Indiana
- Hopkinsville, Kentucky
- Murray, Kentucky
- Poplar Bluff, Missouri
- New Madrid, Missouri
Residents in both urban and rural areas should remain alert for changing conditions throughout the day.
Safety Tips for Today’s Weather
Officials urge residents to take basic precautions during today’s wet and windy conditions:
- Use caution while driving, especially during periods of heavy rain
- Watch for slick roads and reduced visibility
- Secure or bring indoors any loose outdoor objects
- Stay alert for changing conditions if traveling during peak wind hours
While unsettled weather may linger at times today, conditions are expected to gradually improve as the system exits the region.
As always, residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts and updates from the National Weather Service for the latest information.
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