I wanted to send out a real quick update with things looking a little dicey today. Currently, we have an initial round of showers and storms pushing through SE KY. Look for this activity to exit the state in the next couple hours. Attention then turns to a second and much more intense round this afternoon and evening. Much of the area is now under an "enhanced" risk of severe weather by the Storm Prediction Center (image below). This is a level 3 out of 5 risk and we need to pay attention.

Storms will be capable of producing damaging winds (highest threat), large hail, and tornadoes. The National Weather Service in Louisville put together the image below, showing the probabilities of each hazard. Notice the dashed region in the hail and tornado outlooks across North Central KY. This signifies a 10% chance for very large hail (=> 2 inches in diameter) and/or strong tornadoes within 25 miles of any point in that area.

Looking at timing, current model runs suggest storms will start firing and crossing the Ohio River between 5 and 7 PM EDT. These storms will push southeast, exiting Eastern KY late tonight. Have multiple ways to receive warning and know your shelter plan! I've included some links at the bottom of the page to detailed briefings from each NWS office across the state.

Before the second round, we'll get a dose of summer heat. A Heat Advisory has been issued for portions of the Purchase region of Western KY where high temperatures are expected to jump well into the 90s. Combined with a humid air mass in place, it'll feel more like 100+ at times. Below is a look at the forecast max temps and heat indices from the NWS in Paducah, KY. Take it easy if working outside today. The livestock heat stress index will also jump into the danger and emergency categories out this way. Take precautions as needed. Outside of Western KY, it'll still be a hot one for everyone else, getting into the middle 80s to low 90s across the rest of KY.

Stay tuned!

The following are the National Weather Service offices across the state. Click each link for the latest briefing slides on the event.

Western Kentucky - National Weather Service Paducah

Central Kentucky - National Weather Service Louisville

Eastern Kentucky - National Weather Service Jackson

Northern Bluegrass - National Weather Service Wilmington, OH

Northeastern Kentucky - National Weather Service Charleston, WV