Kentuckians Warned to Prepare for Strong Storms This Afternoon

The Kentucky Division of Emergency Management is warning Kentuckians to prepare for the severe storms that will be battering the state this afternoon and evening.There’s a warm front that’s exiting the state towards the northeast, and a cold front that’s entering the state. Kentucky Emergency Management Director John Heltzel says the combination is what could cause problems this afternoon.“That collision between the warm front that’s exiting the state and the cold front that’s entering the state is setting up what the National Weather Service has called a ‘potentially dangerous situation,’ he said. “I want to highlight the word ‘potentially.’ We want everyone to be prepared and aware, have a plan and understand what to do. But we would prefer not to panic anybody as well.”Heltzel says various areas of the state could see rain, hail, strong winds and possible tornadoes.“We think we’ve got a good handle on the preparedness part of this,” he said. “We’re prepared to respond. We’ve obviously had significant weather earlier this week on Wednesday. All our partners are ready and I believe the state, through the governor’s leadership, is as best prepared as we’ve ever been for these situations.”Heltzel says the National Weather Service still isn’t sure exactly when or where the weather will hit, but it could continue into early tomorrow in the eastern part of the state. He encourages everyone to keep an eye on the weather and be prepared to take shelter if necessary.Several Louisville-area schools have already closed, anticipating the storms.