Louisville residents are gearing up for a bout of severe weather anticipated on Friday, with the National Weather Service in Louisville issuing a forecast that includes high-speed winds, isolated thunderstorms, and the possibility of rain transitioning into snow.
The National Weather Service predicts wind gusts ranging from 45 to 55 mph on Friday, with the potential for damaging winds exceeding 58 mph in the afternoon. Additionally, there’s a chance that rain could transform into snow, with light accumulations in the forecast.
This weather event precedes a significant cold front expected to sweep through the region, ushering in a rapid drop in temperatures starting Sunday evening. Monday onwards, high temperatures are anticipated to linger in the teens, accompanied by wind chills dipping below zero.
At 5 a.m., it was announced that Louisville, along with other parts of Kentucky such as Lexington and Bowling Green, would be under a Wind Advisory from 7 a.m. Friday until 7 a.m. Saturday. However, there’s a possibility of upgrading this advisory to a High Wind Warning depending on evolving conditions.
The National Weather Service emphasizes that the high-speed winds forecasted for Friday afternoon could impact trees, cause minor damage to structures, and potentially lead to power outages.
To address the community’s concerns and ensure preparedness, Mayor Craig Greenberg is scheduled to hold a news conference at 12:15 p.m. Key figures from various city departments, including the Louisville Fire Division and Louisville Metro Public Works, are expected to share insights. NWS Chief Meteorologist John Gordon will also provide valuable information during the briefing.
Editor’s Note: The Courier Journal is offering this winter weather coverage as a free public service. For those who are not subscribers, supporting their journalism is encouraged. Stay tuned for further updates as the situation unfolds.