Get ready for a challenging day ahead as the tri-state area braces itself for some turbulent weather. The National Weather Service in Paducah has raised the severity level of the approaching storm to an Enhanced Risk. Brace yourself for the possibility of hail, powerful winds, and even the formation of a tornado. Embrace the beauty of this Easter day while staying prepared for the potential weather hazards heading our way.
HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK
This Article Includes
This Hazardous Weather Outlook applies to areas in southern Illinois, southwest Indiana, western Kentucky, and southeast Missouri.
Day One… Today and Tonight
There is a chance of isolated thunderstorms occurring, particularly in areas of southern Illinois and southwest Indiana.
During the second through seventh days of the week, which encompass Monday through Saturday…
Late Monday through Monday night presents the greatest opportunity for the development of strong to severe storms. During this time, the potential severe weather hazards include damaging winds, tornadoes, and large hail.
Expect much colder air to arrive during the middle of the week, bringing with it the possibility of frost and freezing temperatures. The night of Thursday presents the highest likelihood of experiencing these conditions.
FORECAST
On Monday, there is a possibility of showers and thunderstorms in the morning, followed by likely showers and possibly a thunderstorm in the afternoon. The weather will be mostly cloudy, with a high temperature around 78 degrees. Expect a southwest wind of 10 to 15 mph, with gusts reaching up to 22 mph. The chance of precipitation is 60%.
For Monday night, showers are expected, along with a possible thunderstorm. The temperature will dip to around 59 degrees, accompanied by a south wind of 9 to 14 mph, and gusts as high as 21 mph. The chance of precipitation is 100%.
Moving on to Tuesday, there is a likelihood of showers and possibly a thunderstorm before 1pm. This will be followed by a chance of showers and thunderstorms between 1pm and 4pm, and finally a chance of showers after 4pm. The weather will be partly sunny, with a high temperature near 68 degrees. Expect a west wind of 11 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 29 mph. The chance of precipitation is 60%.
Tuesday night will be mostly cloudy, with a low temperature around 40 degrees. It will be breezy, with a northwest wind of 14 to 20 mph, and gusts as high as 30 mph.
I’m tired of this extreme weather! However, I came across an intriguing fact shared by Daviess County Emergency Management on their Facebook page last week:
Did you know that we often get asked why we “hype” weather events that may not seem severe? Well, the answer is quite simple: weather is constantly changing. But there’s more to it than that. Let’s take a look at the numbers:
Since 1995 (EF-3 Tornadoes):
– 3 occurred during a high-risk event.
– 4 occurred during a moderate-risk event.
– 17 EF-3 Tornadoes were in a low-risk event.
In addition, fatalities have increased by 20% during overnight storms. That’s why our messaging is so strong whenever there’s a tornado threat nearby. It’s not just a matter of hype, it’s a matter of safety.
So next time you wonder why we take weather events seriously, remember these facts.
Source: US National Weather Service Paducah Kentucky
Make sure you are prepared for emergencies by having an emergency kit ready.
According to recommendations from ready.gov, it is important to have the following items in your emergency kit.
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- Water (one gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation)
- Food (at least a several-day supply of non-perishable food)
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
- Flashlight
- First aid kit
- Extra batteries
- Whistle (to signal for help)
- Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
- Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place)
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
- Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
- Manual can opener (for food)
- Local maps
- Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
Additional Emergency Supplies
When preparing your emergency supply kit, it’s important to consider including the following items that cater to your specific needs:
1. Medications: Ensure you have a sufficient supply of any prescription medications you take regularly. Additionally, include over-the-counter medications for common ailments such as pain relievers, antacids, and allergy medication.
2. Personal hygiene products: Don’t forget to include essential items like toilet paper, soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, and feminine hygiene products. These items are often overlooked but are crucial for maintaining personal hygiene during an emergency.
3. Copies of important documents: Make copies of important documents such as identification cards, passports, insurance policies, and medical records. Store them in a waterproof container or bag to protect them from damage.
4. Cash: Keep a small amount of cash on hand in case ATMs or credit card machines are not functioning during a disaster. It’s recommended to have a mix of smaller bills, as it may be challenging to receive change for larger denominations.
5. Non-perishable food: Stock up on non-perishable food items that can last for several days or weeks. Examples include canned goods, energy bars, dried fruits, nuts, and granola. Don’t forget to include a manual can opener.
6. Water: Aim to have at least one gallon of water per person per day for a minimum of three days. Store water in clean, tightly sealed containers and regularly check for expiration dates.
7. Extra clothing and blankets: Include extra clothing appropriate for the weather conditions in your area, such as jackets, hats, gloves, and sturdy shoes. Also, include blankets or sleeping bags to stay warm during power outages or if you need to evacuate.
8. Emergency contacts: Write down important phone numbers, including those of family members, doctors, and utility companies. Keep a physical copy in your emergency kit, as your phone may not be accessible or charged during an emergency.
Remember, these items are just a starting point. Customize your emergency supply kit based on your family’s unique needs, taking into consideration any medical conditions, dietary restrictions, or special requirements. Regularly review and update your kit to ensure everything is in working order and up to date.
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- Soap, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces
- Prescription medications. About half of all Americans take a prescription medicine every day. An emergency can make it difficult for them to refill their prescription or to find an open pharmacy. Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and vitamins to prepare for an emergency.
- Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
- Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution
- Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream
- Pet food and extra water for your pet
- Cash or traveler’s checks
- Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
- Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
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- Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
- Fire extinguisher
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- Matches in a waterproof container
- Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
- Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
- Paper and pencil
- Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children