Strong Storm with 50 MPH Winds Nearing Harlan and Leslie Counties

Residents in Harlan and Leslie counties should prepare for a strong thunderstorm with wind gusts up to 50 mph, according to a Special Weather Statement issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) in Jackson, KY. The storm is currently tracking over Bledsoe, approximately 8 miles north of Harlan, moving southeast at 10 mph.

This advisory is in effect until 6:00 PM EDT today, September 20. The NWS warns that gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Locations expected to be impacted include Harlan, Loyall, Clovertown, Rosspoint, Bledsoe, and other surrounding communities.

If you are outdoors, seek shelter inside a building immediately. The storm also brings torrential rainfall which may cause localized flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways.