High wind warning through tonight; damaging gusts over 50 MPH likely

The National Weather Service in Paducah has issued a high wind warning in effect all day today.

South to southwest winds 20 to 30 mph this morning will steadily increase in intensity through the day to peak this afternoon and evening at more than 50 mph. Morning gusts will be strongest around the lakes area, but by afternoon the wind will ramp up across the four-state region to hazardous levels.

Thunderstorms and heavy rains are also a part of the weather today. Rainfall of 1 to 2.5 inches is forecast, with spots getting up to 3 inches of rain, mostly before 5 pm today. This could cause some local flooding issues, but also saturate the ground which could increase chances for trees to blow over.

Rain could mix with sleet late this afternoon as temperatures fall quickly from 50s in the morning to the 30s by afternoon.

The chance for gusts up to 50 mph is high, and there is potential for gusts to 60 mph or greater. The effective impact of these high wind gusts cannot be overstated. People should avoid being outside around trees and branches that can break down and cause injury. If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows. Use caution if you must drive, especially in high profile vehicles.

Scattered power outages are expected.

Temperatures will fall quickly through tonight. Meteorologists estimate the wind chill will feel like 20 by 5 pm, and feel like 10 by 8 pm.

A strong arctic cold front will move into the region Saturday afternoon.

There is a very real possibility that parts of the area (especially upper southern Illinois) will remain below freezing for 6 to 7 days or longer. That has only occurred 3 to 4 times in the last 35 years. The most recent occurrence across the whole area was early January 2001.

Lows Saturday through Tuesday night are forecast to fall into or near the single digits. Below zero wind chills are likely most of Monday and Tuesday.

The extended cold snap will be dangerous to those without adequate shelter and will likely challenge plumbing and other cold-sensitive infrastructure. Take necessary action to protect yourself and winterize property.

Accumulating snow remains possible Monday but forecast amounts continue to trend lower. It's now expected to be less than 2 inches area-wide. The highest amounts remain along the Arkansas/Tennessee border.