Gov. Beshear warns of strong to severe storms across Kentucky today

In News, State by OC Monitor Staff

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Gov. Andy Beshear warned Kentuckians today about strong to severe storms that could impact much of the commonwealth this evening through early Thursday morning. Isolated tornadoes are also possible, along with large hail and localized flash flooding.

The greatest threat of severe storms is expected to hit between 7 p.m. and 12 a.m. EDT. The highest risk of severe storms will be west of Interstate Highway 65, with storms generally expected to weaken overnight. A wind advisory is in effect until 2 a.m. EDT.

Gusty winds from the south could reach 40 mph, which might lead to power outages caused by unsecured objects and tree limbs being blown around.

“Kentuckians, please be weather-aware today,” Gov. Beshear said. “Keep you and your family safe by taking time to prepare for the potential impact of severe weather.”

The Kentucky Emergency Operations Center in Frankfort is actively monitoring the situation.

“Please stay tuned to your local weather broadcast, be aware of outdoor warning sirens and please secure outdoor objects that could be blown away with high wind gusts,” said Director of Kentucky Emergency Management Jeremy Slinker. “Please use caution and avoid walking or driving through floodwaters. Just 6 inches of moving water can knock someone down or sweep vehicles away.”

Kentucky Emergency Management encourages those impacted by the possible severe weather today to contact their local emergency management agency for emergency shelter locations.