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Kentucky Lantern

Sarah Ladd

Gov. Andy Beshear has declared a state of emergency for Kentucky ahead of expected storms and possible tornadoes over the next four days.

Beshear warned of “severe storms that are intense and long-lived” and a risk of tornadoes, hail, flooding and high winds across Kentucky.

Under his emergency order, Kentucky Emergency Operations Center, transportation officials and the Kentucky National Guard will be ready to respond if they’re needed.

“Tornadoes are expected, and I know that’s tough to hear. And we are most concerned about the area of Western Kentucky that has gotten hit far too much, as well as a wider area of Western Kentucky,” Beshear said in a statement. “Remember, these can be strong tornadoes, EF-2 and greater. We’re really concerned about people’s safety, especially in the overnight, because when storms or tornadoes hit while people are asleep, that’s sadly when we’ve lost the most people. So, everybody out there, be really careful.”

What’s expected?

West Kentucky and Western Kentucky are at the highest risk for tornadoes and other storms, according to the National Weather Service. Central Kentucky is under an “enhanced risk” and Eastern Kentucky is under “marginal” risk, according to NWS.

Starting Wednesday night, Western and West Kentucky can expect “a major outbreak of severe storms with strong, long track tornadoes, very large hail and damaging winds,” according to the National Weather Service. Winds could reach 70 miles per hour.

On Thursday and Friday, West Kentuckians in Fulton, Hickman, Carlisle, Ballard, McCracken, Graves and the surrounding areas may experience flash flooding, “rapid rises on area rivers,” heavy rain and severe storms, according to NWS. Paducah is under a flash flood warning through Sunday and may see record-breaking rainfall.

NWS predicts up to 15 inches of rain in West Kentucky, with Western and Central Kentucky expecting a maximum of 10 inches.

Louisville is under a flood watch through Thursday.

Tips for safety

The National Weather Service recommends these safety tips during the type of storms Kentucky is bracing for:

• Find shelter during the storm. Have a plan to go somewhere safe if you need to.
• Do not drive through standing water.
• Keep a flashlight, shoes and cell phone near your bed while you sleep. Make sure your phone is charged and weather alerts are turned on.
• During a tornado, get as low as possible — the lowest room in the home, under a table. Get under something heavy and sturdy to protect yourself from debris.
• During a tornado, stay away from windows and doors.