Weather News

Extreme temperatures lead Lexington to extend use of the heat plan. What to know

Heat index values are expected to exceed 100 this week in Lexington, according to forecasts.
Heat index values are expected to exceed 100 this week in Lexington, according to forecasts. Accuweather

Lexington officials said Thursday the city will extend Phase Three of the extreme heat plan through Friday night, rather than ending it Thursday night as originally planned.

The National Weather Service has issued a Moderate Heat Advisory through 9 p.m. Saturday night, as the heat index is expected to reach between 100 and 105 degrees.

As part of Phase 2 of the heat plan:

  • Lextran will provide free rides to the city’s pools for all residents
  • The city will offer discounted rates for city pools
  • The Dunbar Community Center will be open on July 4 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and on July 5 from 9 a.m. to noon.

Officials also said residents should be aware of a new ordinance passed by the Lexington Urban County Council that fines pet owners for leaving their pets outdoors unattended in extreme weather. Owners caught in violation of the ordinance could pay anywhere from $100 to $500 in fines.

Adrian Paul Bryant
Lexington Herald-Leader
Adrian Paul Bryant is the Lexington Government Reporter for the Herald-Leader. He joined the paper in November 2025 after four years of covering Lexington’s local government for CivicLex. Adrian is a Jackson County native, lifelong Kentuckian, and proud Lexingtonian.
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