The excitement is climbing for Oaks and Derby 151, but so are the rain and storm chances. Storms could be on the strong side tomorrow, especially in Kentucky where there is a slight risk for severe weather, but that risk needs to get pulled north so Louisville is included. If warnings are issued, winds over 60 mph and hail 1" or greater are the primary threats. While lightning isn't considered to be severe based on criteria, it's an obvious hazard with hundreds of thousands of people gathering at Churchill Downs.
Friday begins with some sun, then clouds take over with highs in the upper 70's. The window of time where stroms are most likely is from 2 PM through 6 PM. Please bring a poncho! Coverage looks far less for evening parties, but a lingering downpour is possible. If you also plan on going to Derby, the rain chance has gone way up. Turn on WDRB News at 10 and 11 for an hour by hour look at Derby including how much rain could fall.
