A rainy week ahead for Central and Eastern Kentucky
Rainy pattern takes hold with daily storm chances and cooler temperatures ahead
Active weather pattern begins with showers and storms Sunday
Sunday kicked off what looks to be a much more active stretch of weather across Central and Eastern Kentucky. Scattered showers and storms moved through during the day, keeping highs in the low to mid-80s. Not everyone saw rain, though—those who missed out had partly cloudy skies and even some sunshine breaking through. Tonight, temperatures will dip back into the mid-60s under mostly clear skies.
Storm chances stick around
As we head through the week, rain chances are here to stay. This is a big change from the hot and dry pattern we’ve been locked into for weeks. Scattered showers and storms are expected each day, and some could be strong at times. The best chance for widespread rain comes in the middle of the week, when a developing low-pressure system stalls out over the Ohio Valley. With this setup, Central and Eastern Kentucky could see anywhere from 2 to 4 inches of rainfall by Friday—welcome news given our current drought conditions.
Some storms could be strong
While the rain is much-needed, a few of the storms over the next couple of days could pack a punch. Gusty winds, small hail, lightning, and brief heavy downpours will be possible with stronger storms on both Sunday night and Monday. The Storm Prediction Center places the region under a low-end (marginal) risk for severe weather. It’s not a washout, but it’s a pattern where we’ll need to keep an eye on the radar each day.
Drought relief on the way
The latest drought monitor shows much of Central and Eastern Kentucky in a moderate drought. While this week’s rainfall won’t erase the drought completely, several days of soaking showers will certainly help. After weeks of dry weather, the ground will finally get a chance to absorb some much-needed moisture.
Temperatures cooling down
Along with the rain, temperatures will slowly trend back toward seasonal levels. Highs will start in the low to mid-80s early this week, then dip into the upper 70s by midweek as clouds and rain become more widespread. Overnight lows will settle into the 60s, keeping things mild.
ABC 36 36-Hour Forecast
Sunday Night: Isolated showers possible, partly cloudy. Lows in the mid-60s.
Monday: Showers and storms expected, mostly cloudy. Highs in the low to mid-80s.
Monday Night: Showers and storms expected. Lows in the mid-60s.
