Heat dome will bring hottest temperatures of the year to Kentucky this weekend
Lexington and all of Kentucky will face an intense heatwave this weekend carrying into next week producing the warmest temperatures of the year so far and possible risk for heat-related illnesses.
Temperatures remain in the mid-to-upper 80s Thursday-Saturday but the forecast calls for 95 degrees by the middle of next week, according to the National Weather Service.
Thursday will see a high of 87 degrees during the day, cooling off to 65 in the evening. Similarly, Friday will experience a high of 88 during the day, and a low of 63 in the evening, according to NWS.
Saturday will be much of the same with a high near 84 degrees, and a low of 63 degrees, the NWS reported.
Starting on Sunday is when extreme temperatures will face Kentucky and much of the east coast states, with temperatures ranging from 92-95 degrees.
Sunday will face a high of 92 degrees, and a low of 72 in the evening. Temperatures will continue to rise moving into next week with a Monday forecast high of 94 degrees, and a low of 72 in the evening.
Continuing on track with high temperatures, Tuesday will have a high of 92 and Wednesday will have a high of 95.
The extreme temperatures will be about 10 degrees above normal for this time of year, according to the National Weather Service.
High temperatures are not the only thing to watch out for during this weekend’s heatwave: humidity and heat index will impact the weather as well.
The National Weather Service says Kentucky could have heat index above 100 degrees while other parts of the country could exceed 110 thanks to a heat dome over much of the south. A high pressure system that is currently sweltering the desert Southwest in a heat dome is moving toward the Southeast, bringing the heat wave with it.
How to stay safe in hot temperatures
With the rise in temperatures, it is important to remember how to keep safe during extreme temperatures and adopt protocols to not face heat-related illnesses.
The American Red Cross has recommendations for how to stay safe during the high temperatures.
Important key factors are to stay hydrated and to replace any salt loss due to sweat with electrolytes such as sports drinks. It is also recommended to stay in an air conditioned environment for a long as possible and to limit outdoor activity. If going outside, wear lightweight and loose clothing.
Certain individuals, such as older adults, infants, children, pregnant women and others, are at a higher risk for heat-related illnesses. Individuals may also contact the Disaster Distress Helpline via text or phone if needed to discuss stress endured from heat-related illnesses at 1-800-985-5990.