Parts of IN, KY, IL, & TN Escalated to Risk Level 4/5 for Severe Storms

All week, we’ve been talking about a storm heading our way this Friday night. I’ll admit, I didn’t think it was anything major and thought it would just "blow over" by the weekend. The National Weather Service isn’t known for being alarmists, but typically, forecasts made a week out aren’t that accurate. Well, this time, it’s different. The threat has only gotten worse as the week’s gone on.

As of this morning, Thursday, March 13, the National Weather Service has upgraded parts of the tri-state area to a Moderate Risk Level. I know "moderate" might not sound too bad, but it’s actually a 4/5 on the severe weather scale.

This is going to be bad, folks.

Friday Night Storms in Indiana, Kentucky, Illinois, and Tennessee - UPGRADED

Chief Meteorologist Wayne Hart from Eyewitess News 25 posted this to his facebook page.

SPC has upgraded western portions of #tristatewx to a MODERATE (level 4 of 5) risk for severe storms Friday night with an ENHANCED (level 3) risk elsewhere. The upgrade is for the potential of widespread damaging straight-line winds in excess of 70 mph. A few tornadoes are also possible (and may be strong west of US 41) as a line of storms moves in from the west mainly after 10pm & exits our eastern counties around 3am. - Wayne Hart

Wind is the Main Threat

The NWS has stated that the thread exists for tornadoes but they have labeled this a Moderate threat because of the high winds associated with this storm. They have predicted winds from 30-50 mph ahead of the storm.

Read More: Why You Might Not Feel Well This Friday & Saturday 

Outside the Tri-State

If you live outside of the tri-state, the main threat covers a good part of Illinois and Indiana.

National Weather Service Presentation Takeaways

The National Weather Service in Paducah gave an update this morning as well. One of the big takeaways from his presentation is that the potential exists for tornadoes that are EF-2 or greater. A post by Chicago and Midwest Storm Chasers explained that "A combination of supercells and quick, low-topped convective storms (QLCS) may lead to tornadoes late Friday night into the overnight hours."

When Will These Storms Hit?

He goes on to say that timing will be varied across the region. Here in the tri-state we are looking at 9 PM - 2 AM for the first storm and 9 AM-4 PM for the second storm. This makes the first storm EXTREMELY dangerous because it's overnight.

How to Stay Safe

Be sure to check to see if your emergency alerts are turned ON in your phone.

Read More: Storm Season is Here for IN and KY: Are Your Emergency Alerts On?

Our friend Ron Rhodes from Eyewintess News 25 talked to us this morning about the weather leading up to the storm and what to expect Friday night into Saturday.

Get Prepared

Since wind is the main threat, make sure you secure anything that could blow away. I can't wait to see how many trampolines make a break for it.

Make sure you download our app and turn on Breaking News Notifications so we can help keep you informed!

Have an Emergency Kit

Here's what ready.gov recommends having in a kit.

• Water (one gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation)
• Food (at least a several-day supply of non-perishable food)
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
• FlashlightFirst aid kit
  Extra batt
• eries
• Whistle (to signal for help)
• Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place)
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
• Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
• Manual can opener (for food)
• Local maps
• Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

Additional Emergency Supplies

Consider adding the following items to your emergency supply kit based on your individual needs:

• Soap, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces
• Prescription medications. About half of all Americans take a prescription medicine every day. An emergency can make it difficult for them to refill their prescription or to find an open pharmacy. Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and vitamins to prepare for an emergency.
• Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
• Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution
• Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream
• Pet food and extra water for your pet
• Cash or traveler's checks
• Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
• Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
• Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches in a waterproof container
• Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
• Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
• Paper and pencil
• Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

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