Rain, storms, and gusty winds likely Thursday

Meteorologist Dillon Gaudet has the latest in your full ABC 36 Storm Team forecast

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ) – Happy Thursday! We are tracking more rain and storms in the forecast for your Thursday. There is also a severe threat across the region, with a Level 2 Severe Risk out for the northern half of the ABC 36 viewing area. The main severe threat will be damaging wind gusts within storms that will move through the during the midday and afternoon. There is a higher risk for severe weather in far northeastern Kentucky into Ohio and West Virginia. This is due to an elevated spin-up tornado threat. Heavy rain is also likely for all of the region. Upwards of 1-2 inches of additional rain is possible through the day today, with lingering showers expected into Friday. A cold front will pass through this afternoon into the evening. This will eliminate the severe weather threat, and also begin to drop temperatures. You can expect some gusty winds with this passing front. Gusts upwards of 30-40 mph will be possible during the evening hours.

Rain showers become more isolated overnight as the cold front passes to the east. Temperatures will start in the 40s for most area Friday morning, much colder than it has been all week. You can expect lingering off and on breezy rain showers on Friday with cooler temperatures. Afternoon highs will only reach the mid-50s for most, with the rain and wind making feel colder at times.

We finally dry out to start your weekend. Saturday looks fantastic with temperatures climbing into the upper 60s near 70 during the afternoon. Temperatures climb even further on Sunday, into the mid-70s. Rain chances return late Sunday into next week. Widespread showers and storms aren’t anticipated at this time, but rain chances will be around. Temperatures will soar into the upper 70s by the middle of next week. This will be ahead of another strong mid-week system that will bring more rain and storm chances to the region.

Stay with the ABC 36 Storm Team for more updates. 

ABC 36 HOUR FORECAST
THURSDAY: Rain and storms likely, a few strong-to-severe storms. Highs in the 70s.
THURSDAY NIGHT: Temperatures drop with a few lingering shoers. Lows in the 40s.
FRIDAY: Off & on breezy rain showers. Highs in the 50s.