LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Heavy downpours, hail, lightning and tornadoes will occur in the Louisville Metro into the overnight hours. 

These storms have the potential to cause damage and life-threatening flash flooding. 

Be prepared for the initial line of storms to arrive starting around 8 p.m. and lasting overnight.

The Storm Prediction Center has Louisville in the four out of five range for severe weather, also known as a “moderate risk.” A tornado outbreak is expected from the lower Mississippi Valley into the Mid-South and Ohio Valley.

Damaging winds, tornadoes and hail are expected.

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The most intense storms are anticipated to arrive into southern Indiana, and the Louisville Metro by 10 p.m. tonight. It will be a dramatic arrival of storms within the leading edge of the storm line. 

There will be strong winds that could gust over 70mph, and golf ball size hail.

Within specific storms along the line, will exist the potential for tornadoes. The storms containing the rotation necessary for tornado production are likely within the leading edge of the system.

The severe weather threat is greatest Wednesday night into Thursday morning, however more storms are possible late Thursday into Friday. 

Heavy rain will accompany these storms and could last through the weekend. Rainfall totals could easily reach 10+ inches.

The heavy rain could cause rivers and streams to rise quickly, creating dangerous conditions on roads and near waterways. 

The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch until Sunday at 8 a.m.

Louisville and surrounding areas are expected to receive significant amounts of rain, with totals potentially reaching several inches. This could lead to flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas or places with poor drainage. 

Rainfall totals could easily reach 10+ inches by the weekend.

Flooding concerns will continue through Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, with rainfall totals accumulating over the days. Those living in flood-prone areas of Louisville should be particularly cautious.

It’s recommended that residents stay informed through local weather reports and have a plan in place in case of road closures or evacuations. Drivers should avoid traveling through flooded areas, as conditions can change rapidly.