Heavy Rain and Strong Winds Expected in Lexington and Central Kentucky

Lexington and Central Kentucky are bracing for the impact of the remnants of Hurricane Helene, which is expected to bring significant rainfall and strong winds in the coming days. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued forecasts that predict substantial weather changes starting this week.

The storm, currently classified as a Category 2, is moving through the eastern Gulf of Mexico and is anticipated to make landfall early Friday morning over Florida’s Big Bend Coast. As its remnants move north, Central Kentucky can expect total rainfall amounts between 2 to 4 inches and winds ranging from 30 to 40 mph.

Starting on Thursday, residents of Central Kentucky should prepare for some initial rain, but the heaviest downpours are forecasted for Friday. On that day, the NWS estimates that Lexington could receive 1 to 2 inches of rain, with sustained winds of 22 to 30 mph and gusts potentially reaching up to 45 mph. Chief Meteorologist Chris Bailey has warned of a likely chance of flash flooding during this time.

The rain is expected to continue into Saturday and Sunday, with conditions only starting to clear up by Wednesday, when sunshine is forecasted, along with a high temperature of 73 degrees Fahrenheit.

In light of the inclement weather, some local events have been affected. The annual Festival Latino De Lexington has canceled events scheduled for Friday, September 27, at the Robert F. Stephens Courthouse Plaza. However, plans for Saturday remain intact, which includes festivities at the courthouse and the Health Fair at Masterson Station Park on September 29 from 1-5 p.m.. Organizers encourage attendees to note that only the events on the 27th have been canceled.

Residents are advised to stay tuned for updates and to exercise caution as the storm approaches, particularly concerning potential flooding and high winds.