Western Kentucky is facing several more days of dangerous heat, with temperatures approaching 100 degrees and heat index values climbing above 100 each afternoon.
The National Weather Service in Paducah has issued an Extreme Heat Warning through Saturday for the entire region as a prolonged heat wave continues.
The heat index is forecast to reach 105 degrees Wednesday, Thursday and Friday before reaching 104 Saturday. The actual temperature is expected to reach 98 degrees Wednesday and Thursday, 97 Friday and 94 Saturday.
Forecasters say humidity will be somewhat lower than during the region’s previous heat wave, but actual temperatures will be higher. Daily heat index readings across the region are expected to range from 100 to 109 degrees.
Little relief is expected overnight. The low temperature is forecast to remain in the mid-70s through Friday morning, including lows around 75 degrees Thursday and Friday. The National Weather Service says the prolonged warmth could result in record-high minimum temperatures.
Some relief is expected beginning Sunday, when the high is forecast to fall to around 92 degrees with a heat index near 95. However, forecasters say heat-related warnings or advisories may need to be extended through Sunday.
The National Weather Service urges people to limit strenuous outdoor activity, drink plenty of fluids and take frequent breaks in air-conditioned locations. Extra precautions should also be taken for children, older adults and anyone particularly vulnerable to heat-related illness.
