National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce

Thunderstorms and Widespread Rainfall Across the Southern Plains

Isolated severe thunderstorms and widespread showers may produce flash flooding across the Southern Plains through Thursday. Numerous instances of flash flooding are expected in south-central Texas, including portions of the Hill Country; and an additional area across eastern Oklahoma into the Ozarks on Thursday. Heavy rainfall and mountain snow will return to southern California on Thursday. Read More >

Overview

An upper level low over the southern great lakes helped to generate several rounds of showers and storms across east Kentucky on July 20th.  Plentiful moisture moved northward into the Ohio river valley thanks to modest southerly flow.  With ample daytime heating, explosive thunderstorm development was seen across central and eastern Kentucky.  While a tornado and hail threat was seen initially across central Kentucky, the wind threat took over as thunderstorms evolved into a line of storms.  Many reports of storm damage were received with the most extensive damage occurring along and north of the Mountain Parkway, particularly in Montgomery County where Emergency Management reported that 47 roads were closed at one point due to downed trees and power lines resulting in nearly 4,600 power outages. Additionally, a disaster declaration was made for the county as multiple buildings sustained damage. These included a tobacco warehouse that had its roof blown off as well as a hotel in Mount Sterling whose sign and building both sustained damage from severe straight-line winds. 

Image Image Image
Tree Down in Mount Sterling (Photo courtesy of Kendra Fugate) Shelf Cloud in London (Photo courtesy of Johnnie Nicholson) Clay Tobacco Warehouse in Mount Sterling (Photo courtesy of Kendra Fugate)