Thursday's Atmosphere Gets Juicy

It's been quite a morning in the world of weather. Right at 7:30, a time that many are heading up the hill to classes or to where ever they may need to be in the morning, a round of highly electric thunderstorms moved through the area, providing quite a photogenic scene. Our own WKU Storm Team member James Bryant captured the photos below.

Lightning captured by James Bryant

Photo from James Bryant showing approaching storms this morning.

In the mean time, looking out the window, you may notice sunshine, clouds, and good bit of blue sky. We're in the clear right? Think again. If you step outside, you can feel the humidity for sure. The air around has that thick and soupy feel to it. Combine that with sunshine, at the atmosphere is simply juicing up for more rounds of thunderstorms this afternoon.

The HRRR (High Resolution Rapid Refesh) forecast model has an idea of how things may look towards the afternoon.

HRRR Showing how storm activity may behave this afternoon.

These storms have the potential to be severe, with damaging winds and hail being the main threats. Of course, heavy rain and lightning are always danger concerns when it comes to severe weather. The SPC (Storm Prediction Center) has a good portion of the region in a SLIGHT risk for severe storms this afternoon and evening, with an enhanced severe risk just to our west.

SPC outline of the severe risks this afternoon and evening.

Outside of thunderstorms, expect the sun and clouds mix, with highs in the mid to upper 70s.

The storm threat isn't just for today. Come back this evening for an update on how things are shaping up for the severe weather threat tomorrow.

Have a good one!

- Chris Reece