More unsettled weather on the way to kick off May
Another round of strong storms may be possible Thursday
After a noisy end to Tuesday with strong storms rumbling through the Commonwealth, Wednesday offered a bit of a break. We started the final day of April with some patchy fog but a mix of clouds and sunshine returned by midday helping temperatures rebound into the upper 70s, especially down south for areas on the other side of the warm front. Despite the stalled frontal boundary lingering across Kentucky much of the activity was scattered in nature with storms pulsing up (which prompted a few Severe Thunderstorm Warnings) before weakening out in short order. . But don’t get too comfortable—the first day of May is bringing a renewed threat for severe weather.
Severe Storms Possible Thursday as May Arrives
A new wave of low pressure sliding into the Ohio Valley Thursday will drag a cold front through the region, re-energizing our atmosphere and setting the stage for more strong to severe storms. This system brings a setup common for this time of year—when damaging winds, large hail, and even an isolated tornado spin-up are all possible. The Storm Prediction Center has placed all of Central and Eastern Kentucky under a Level 2 (Slight Risk) for severe weather on Thursday. Gusty southwest winds will drive temperatures into the low 80s, but they’ll also add to the instability fueling the storms.
Rain Gear Recommended for Oaks and Possibly Derby Day
Looking ahead to Oaks Day (Friday), another boundary will rotate through the region, keeping scattered showers and storms in the picture. If you’re heading to Churchill Downs, it’s a good idea to pack the umbrella and poncho. Unfortunately, the forecast for Derby Day (Saturday) has become a bit more uncertain. Earlier models hinted at a clearing trend, but new data suggests the upper-level system could stall over the Ohio Valley, cutting off from the main flow. If that happens clouds and occasional showers could linger through the weekend especially across Central and Eastern Kentucky. Regardless, temperatures will trend cooler with highs staying in the mid-60s for Derby weekend.
Wednesday Night: Mild with isolated storms. Lows in the low to mid-60s. Wind: SE 5-10 mph.
Thursday: Breezy and warm, storms late. Highs in the low-80s. Wind: SW 15-20 mph.
Thursday Night: More storms, still breezy. Lows in the low-60s. Wind: SW 10-15 mph.
