News Summary
Kentucky is bracing for severe weather this weekend including heavy rain, tornadoes, and the risk of flooding. The National Weather Service has issued multiple tornado warnings across several counties. Governor Andy Beshear has declared a state of emergency. Residents are advised to take precautions as power outages and storm damage are reported across the region.
Lexington, Kentucky – A major storm system is currently impacting Kentucky, bringing severe weather conditions, including heavy rain, tornadoes, and the potential for flooding this weekend. The National Weather Service has issued tornado warnings and forecasts a tornado outbreak that may extend into tonight and throughout the weekend.
Severe weather warnings are in effect as it is estimated that some areas in Western Kentucky could receive more than 15 inches of rain by the end of the weekend. In Lexington, rainfall totals are expected to reach between 6 to 8 inches, with significant rainfall already observed in several neighborhoods, particularly on Man ‘o War near Tates Creek.
Tornado Warnings Issued
As of 3 a.m. today, tornado warnings were issued for Garrard, Lincoln, Boyle, and southern Madison counties. Additional warnings also extend to Montgomery, Fleming, Bath, and Nicholas counties. Radar indicates a severe weather system is present, with wind gusts forecasted to nearly reach 70 mph throughout Eastern Kentucky.
Storm Damage and Power Outages
At least 8,000 residents in Louisville experienced power outages due to the storm. Reports of hail have been confirmed, with nickel-sized stones falling in various areas. In Gage, injuries were reported when individuals sought shelter inside a vehicle under a carport amid the storm’s severity.
State of Emergency Declared
In response to the looming severe weather threats, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has declared a state of emergency. This declaration enables emergency management teams to mobilize and be better prepared for the adverse weather conditions. Following the storm, these teams will conduct damage assessments across affected areas.
Flooding Concerns
The storm system is anticipated to bring a significant influx of rainfall from Thursday through Sunday, potentially leading to long-term flooding issues. The heavy rains and tornado threats are considerable concerns throughout the night, with areas under a wide tornado watch that stretches across central Tennessee, northern Mississippi, and parts of Alabama as well.
Historical Context
Lexington has had its share of tornado threats in the past, with the last confirmed tornado touchdown occurring in May 2004. A notable EF-3 tornado previously struck northwest Lexington and the Masterson Station area, highlighting the vulnerability of the region to severe weather incidents. Authorities are advising residents on Interstate 64 in Fayette County to seek shelter due to the persistent severe weather warnings.
The weather service continues to monitor conditions closely, issuing alerts and updates as necessary. Residents are urged to stay informed of evolving weather conditions and to take appropriate precautions to ensure their safety during this severe weather event.
As the storm progresses, individuals are encouraged to prioritize emergency preparedness and be mindful of the ongoing risks associated with tornadoes, high winds, and flooding.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Severe Storms Cause Havoc in Lexington, Kentucky
April Brings a Variety of Events to Central Kentucky
Lexington Celebrates 250 Years with Month of Music
DanceBlue Breaks Records in Lexington for Pediatric Cancer
University of Kentucky’s DanceBlue Breaks Records for Childhood Cancer Treatment
Severe Weather Threat Looms Over Central and Eastern Kentucky
Widespread Power Outages Hit Ontario as Ice Storm Strikes
Severe Weather Warning for Central and Western Kentucky
Lexington Ranks No. 10 Best City to Visit in the South for 2025
Severe Weather and Flooding in Kentucky Claims 14 Lives
Additional Resources
- WKYT: First Alert Weather Day
- Wikipedia: Severe Weather
- Kentucky.com: Weather News
- Google Search: Severe Weather Kentucky
- LEX 18: Lexington Nurse Fundraising
- Google Scholar: Storm Preparedness
- Fox 56 News: Easter Traffic Checkpoints
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Kentucky
- WKYT: Lexington Crash
- Google News: Kentucky Storm News
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
