Louisville, Ky. — A dangerous and fast-moving weather situation is unfolding across central and eastern Kentucky Tuesday, as forecasters warn of extreme heat, severe thunderstorms, and flash flooding — all striking within hours of each other.
A Heat Advisory is in effect through 8 p.m. EDT, with heat index values forecast to climb between 103 and 106 degrees in Louisville, Lexington, Bowling Green, Jasper, Hartford, and surrounding communities. An Air Quality Alert also remains active for the Louisville metro area through midnight. Residents with outdoor jobs, young children, the elderly, and those without air conditioning face the greatest risk.
As the afternoon progresses, the threat shifts from heat to severe storms. Much of central Kentucky sits under a Level 2 of 5 Slight Risk for severe weather, while communities near and northeast of Lexington — including Cynthiana and Morehead — face an elevated Level 3 of 5 Enhanced Risk. Damaging straight-line winds are the primary danger, but isolated tornadoes cannot be ruled out.
Heavy rainfall will compound the threat. Widespread totals of 1 to 2 inches are expected across the region, with isolated spots east of Interstate 65 potentially receiving more than 3 inches if storms repeatedly track over the same area. Low-lying neighborhoods and areas with poor drainage face the highest flash flood risk. Drivers are urged to avoid flooded roadways — conditions on highways and local roads could change within minutes during the evening commute.
Officials are urging residents to stay indoors during peak heat hours, secure any loose outdoor items before storms arrive, and have a battery-powered radio or phone alert system ready in case warnings are issued after dark. Additional tornado watches and flash flood warnings may be issued as the storm system organizes throughout the day.
Residents should monitor local emergency management updates closely. Conditions are expected to remain volatile through Tuesday night.