Flooding and storm threat continues overnight ahead of some snow Sunday
Meteorologist Dillon Gaudet has the latest in your full ABC 36 Storm Team forecast
LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC 36 NEWS NOW) – After a day of relentless rainfall, widespread flooding remains a major concern across much of southern and southeastern Kentucky. Heavy downpours earlier in the day led to flash flooding, and as the evening progresses, the focus is shifting toward river and areal flooding. Many area rivers have already reached moderate to major flood stage, with additional rises expected. Remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown when approaching flooded roadways.
More Rain and Storms Overnight
While some areas south of I-64 experienced a temporary lull in precipitation during the early evening, another round of rain and storms is on the way late tonight. Additional rainfall amounts of 1-2 inches, with localized totals up to 3 inches, will be possible, particularly in central and northern Kentucky. Given the saturated ground, it will take very little additional rain to exacerbate existing flooding issues. Flash flooding remains a real threat, particularly in areas that have already seen high water today.
Some storms overnight may also bring strong to damaging winds, mainly in south-central Kentucky west of I-75. A brief tornado cannot be ruled out, mainly in areas west of the Lake Cumberland region.
Arctic Front Brings Rapid Temperature Drop and Snow
A sharp cold front will sweep through Kentucky early Sunday morning, bringing a rapid drop in temperatures. As the front moves through, temperatures will plummet from the 50s into the low 30s by dawn and into the 20s by Sunday evening. Rain will change to snow, with a brief period of moderate snowfall possible, particularly in northern Kentucky. While widespread accumulation is not expected, some light accumulations on grassy and elevated surfaces could occur.
Scattered snow showers will linger throughout the day Sunday into Sunday night, with gusty northwest winds making it feel even colder. Winds could gust up to 30-35 mph at times, leading to bitter wind chills.
Travel Hazards and Freezing Conditions Sunday Night
One of the biggest concerns heading into Sunday night will be the potential for black ice. With temperatures quickly falling into the teens overnight, any lingering water on roads, bridges, and overpasses will freeze. This could create slick and hazardous travel conditions for the Monday morning commute. If you must travel, use extreme caution.
Looking Ahead: Significant Midweek Winter Storm Possible
Beyond this weekend, all eyes turn to a developing winter storm expected to impact the region by Tuesday night into Wednesday. Early indications suggest that a swath of moderate to heavy accumulating snowfall will be possible across portions of Kentucky. While there is still some uncertainty regarding the exact track and snowfall amounts, ensemble models suggest the potential for a significant winter weather event.
Initial probabilities indicate a high likelihood of at least 3 inches of snow, with a moderate chance for 6 inches or more in some locations. Temperatures will remain frigid through the week, with highs struggling to get out of the 20s and lows dipping into the single digits by Thursday night.
Stay with the ABC 36 Storm Team for more updates.
