A heat advisory is in effect from mid-day Monday until 8 p.m. Wednesday for Western Kentucky. Highs will be in the upper 90s through Thursday. The heat index could reach 110 on Monday, and will exceed 100 on Tuesday and Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service forecast.
“Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances,” a notice from the NWS office at Paducah states. “Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening.”
Light-weight and loose-fitting clothing should be worn when possible. Frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned spaces are recommended for people working outdoors.
It’s important to know the symptoms of heat-related illnesses.The extremely high temperatures the region will experience this week can lead to heat exhalation and heat stroke. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention outlines the symptoms and how to respond.
Jennifer P. Brown is co-founder, publisher and editor of Hoptown Chronicle. You can reach her at editor@hoptownchronicle.org. Brown was a reporter and editor at the Kentucky New Era, where she worked for 30 years. She is a co-chair of the national advisory board to the Institute for Rural Journalism and Community Issues, governing board past president for the Kentucky Historical Society, and co-founder of the Kentucky Open Government Coalition. She serves on the Hopkinsville History Foundation's board.
