News Summary
Central and Eastern Kentucky are on alert for heavy rain and potential flash flooding as a storm system impacts the region this week. Rainfall totals could reach 3 inches in some areas, primarily affecting low-lying and flood-prone locales. The National Weather Service has issued a Slight Risk for flash flooding, encouraging residents to stay informed and prepared. As the week progresses, another disturbance may bring light rain later, all while temperatures remain below average. This increasing intensity of weather events raises concerns about the impacts of climate change in the region.
Central and Eastern Kentucky is bracing for heavy rain and potential flash flooding this week, with widespread rainfall expected across the region. The Weather Prediction Center has issued a Slight Risk (Level 2 out of 4) for flash flooding in a majority of the area, putting residents on alert for possible severe weather conditions.
Rainfall totals are expected to range between 1 to 2 inches, with localized areas potentially receiving up to 3 inches. Low-lying and flood-prone areas are advised to stay vigilant, particularly through midday to evening on Monday, when scattered showers and thunderstorms may enhance rainfall rates, leading to brief but significant downpours.
As the week progresses, the storm system that triggers the rain will start to move out of the region by Wednesday. However, lingering showers and storms may affect southern and eastern counties, including Jackson, Hazard, and Harlan, for a longer duration compared to Lexington and Richmond, which are anticipated to dry out by the afternoon.
Throughout the week, temperatures are expected to remain below average for late May, generally ranging from the upper 60s to low 70s. A dry period is forecast from late Wednesday until Thursday morning. However, another disturbance could bring light rain from Thursday into Friday, albeit with lighter rainfall amounts compared to earlier in the week.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has indicated a 30% chance of rain on Wednesday, increasing to 40% on Friday. While no flood watch has been issued yet, residents in areas prone to flooding should remain weather-aware, as the NWS may activate such warnings by Tuesday afternoon.
The potential for isolated flooding is a concern, particularly in low-lying or poorly-drained areas, especially in eastern Kentucky. Previous severe weather in the region has caused wind damage, hail, and flooding, leading to continued monitoring and alerts throughout the night.
This week’s weather has drawn attention to the changing climate patterns affecting the region. Recent research indicates an increase in the intensity of heavy rainfall events in Kentucky, with climate change contributing to more extreme weather scenarios. A report highlights how rainfall events, previously considered rare, are becoming more frequent and severe due to ongoing climate shifts.
Experts have pointed out that marginal increases in flooding intensity could have significant effects on specific regions and communities. The NWS’s proactive approach in providing timely warnings during previous severe weather events has been recognized for its role in saving lives and protecting property across affected areas.
As residents in Central and Eastern Kentucky prepare for potential flooding, it is crucial that they stay informed and ready, especially in flood-prone areas. With gradual improvements expected as June approaches, forecasts indicate a pattern shift that will bring warmer, sunnier weather, with temperatures rebounding into the upper 70s and low 80s just beyond this week.
In summary, while the immediate focus is on heavy rain and flooding risks this week, changes in the climate are shaping the weather patterns and should be taken into account for long-term planning and preparedness.
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Additional Resources
- Kentucky.com: Weather News
- Wikipedia: Weather
- WKYT: Severe Storms and Flooding
- Google Search: Kentucky Weather Alerts
- Fox 56 News: Winter Storm Forecast
- Google Scholar: Flooding Weather Kentucky
- Kentucky.com: Flooding Rains Forecast
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Flood
- Fox 56 News: Weather Forecast & Flooding
- Google News: Kentucky Climate Change
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
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