Western and Central Kentucky Weather: Hail, 60 MPH Winds, Isolated Tornado Threat After 3 p.m. Thursday

Jessica Bowling

February 18, 2026

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Louisville, Kentucky – Strong thunderstorms may move across much of Kentucky late Thursday, bringing threats of large hail, damaging wind gusts, and even a possible isolated tornado by late afternoon.

According to the National Weather Service in Louisville, a strengthening surface low will advance into the western Great Lakes by Thursday night as warm, moisture-rich air spreads across the Commonwealth. That pattern will trigger scattered showers and thunderstorms Thursday afternoon ahead of an approaching cold front. Some storms could rapidly intensify, particularly from western into central Kentucky.

The highest risk area includes Louisville, Bowling Green, Elizabethtown, and Lexington, where forecasters warn of hail and wind gusts exceeding 60 mph. Travel along Interstates 65, 64, and 71 may become dangerous during heavier rainfall. Stronger storms could also lead to isolated power outages.

Western Kentucky, including Paducah and Owensboro, may experience storms earlier in the afternoon, while eastern counties could see impacts continue into the late evening. Residents are advised to secure loose outdoor items, charge electronic devices, and stay alert for watches or warnings as conditions change.

Storm chances are expected to decrease late Thursday night as the cold front shifts east, though additional advisories may be issued if confidence in severe weather increases.

Five-Day Forecast for Louisville, Kentucky:

Wednesday: Partly cloudy and warmer with a high near 68.
Thursday: Showers and thunderstorms developing late afternoon with a high near 72.
Friday: Cooler with morning clouds and gradual clearing, high near 58.
Saturday: Mostly sunny and mild, high near 60.
Sunday: Increasing clouds with a chance of late showers, high near 63.

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