More strong-to-severe storms possible Thursday

After a quiet and muggy start to the day storm chances increase during the afternoon

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC 36 NEWS NOW) – It’s a warm and muggy start to your Thursday across central and eastern Kentucky, but at least we’re starting the day dry. Temperatures will quickly rise into the upper 70s and low 80s this afternoon, and with all that warmth and humidity in place, we’re looking at another round of storms—some of which could be strong to severe.

The Storm Prediction Center has placed all of the ABC 36 Storm Team viewing area under a Level 2 out of 5 (Slight Risk) for severe weather today. Damaging wind gusts and large hail are the primary threats, but there’s also a very low-end risk for a brief spin-up tornado. Storms look to develop by early-to-mid afternoon and continue through early evening before gradually fading overnight. Make sure you stay weather aware and have a way to receive warnings just in case a storm turns severe where you are.

Behind today’s activity, our unsettled pattern continues. Rain and thunderstorm chances return on Friday, with highs in the mid to upper 70s. As of now, the SPC has most of Kentucky under a Level 1 out of 5 (Marginal Risk) for severe weather on Friday—but don’t be surprised if that’s upgraded to a Level 2. Another round of gusty storms is possible Friday afternoon and evening as a secondary disturbance swings through.

Unfortunately, the outlook for the weekend isn’t looking any better. Forecast models are increasingly locking in on the idea of an upper-level low stalling out over the Ohio and Tennessee Valleys, which would keep daily rain chances in the picture through the weekend and into early next week. While it won’t be a complete washout, scattered showers and a few rumbles of thunder will be possible each day.

The other big story heading into the weekend? Cooler temperatures. With increased clouds and rain chances, highs will only reach the 60s by Sunday and possibly struggle to even get there in spots. Both the European and GFS models are now in agreement on this cooler, soggier trend. Overnight lows will also dip into the upper 40s and low 50s.

So, if you have outdoor plans—especially for Derby weekend—be flexible and keep a close eye on updated forecasts from the ABC 36 Storm Team.