Tornados, Extremely Strong Winds, and Fire Dangers Threaten IN, KY, and IL this Week

The weather in Southern Indiana and Western Kentucky has been downright unpredictable lately, and quite frankly, it's getting hard to keep up with all of Mother Nature's wild mood swings.

Giant Storm Passed Through the Midwest

Over the weekend, we knew a giant storm would pass through the Midwest. And boy, did it. Tornadoes, including an F4 down south and one right here in Oakland City tore through the region.

Straight-line winds reached 100 mph, knocking over semis, while a dust storm turned the skies hazy, and a vicious hailstorm caused serious damage to homes, cars, and businesses in Western Kentucky.

Tornado Predictions for 2025 are Coming True

Just last month, I wrote about the tornadoes that hit the area in 2024, along with predictions for 2025. Given that 2025 is a La Niña year, meteorologists turned to past patterns to get a sense of what’s ahead. La Niña typically strengthens the jet stream, pulling in more moisture from the Gulf and triggering stronger winds, setting the stage for more tornado outbreaks. While this year's La Niña is weaker than usual, the conditions are still ripe for a bump in storm activity, especially this spring. And, as we’ve already seen firsthand, the forecast is holding true.

But that’s not all.

2025 Tornado Predictions for KY, IN, IL, & TN – Here’s What to Expect

Read More: Tornadoes in IN, KY, TN & IL: 2024 Recap & 2025 Outlook

Fire & Severe Thunderstorm Alert in SoIN and Western KY

If you thought we could catch a break, think again. The National Weather Service has already issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook for this week.

Tuesday through Sunday

From the National Weather Service in Paducah KY for Southwestern Indiana, Southern Illinois, and Western Kentucky:

An elevated fire danger will likely develop over the entire region Tuesday.

Extremely strong winds will develop on Wednesday, with gusts well over 40 mph expected. There is even some potential for winds to approach severe levels with gusts approaching 60 mph. Fire danger will be a major concern over southeast Missouri, where little or no precipitation is expected.

There is a chance of a few thunderstorms developing just ahead of a cold front as it moves eastward over areas east of the Mississippi River Wednesday afternoon and evening. If storms develop, there will be a chance of a few severe storms. All modes
of severe weather will be possible, but damaging winds will be the greatest threat.

A developing low pressure system to the west will bring gusty south winds Tuesday and Wednesday of this week. Sustained south winds of 15-20 mph with gusts of 35-45 mph are expected. Low relative humidity, and strong winds may result in elevated fire weather concerns as well.

Meteorologists are also warning that isolated tornados could be in our future this week.

Don't Burn Your Trash and Get Prepared

So, please do not burn your trash and save your campfires for days when there isn't a major fire threat in the area. And as always, get prepared for severe weather. You never know when it will impact you.

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