Excessive heat warning in effect until 7 p.m. CDT Saturday
</element><element id="paragraph-1" type="body"><![CDATA[The National Weather Service in Paducah has issued an excessive heat warning, which is in effect until 7 p.m CDT Saturday. The heat advisory and excessive heat watch have been upgraded to an excessive heat warning.
Maximum heat index values will range from 100 to over 110 each afternoon this week. The highest values are expected to be in Southern Illinois, portions of southeast Missouri and southwest Indiana. Even in western Kentucky heat index values will be above 100 each day. Not only will it be hot during the day... but there will be little cooling during the night as overnight lows will be at or above 75. There are small chances of thunderstorms today and again towards the weekend, which may bring some brief local relief.
These heat index values will lead to dangerous conditions for anyone planning outdoor work or play as well as those individuals indoors without air conditioning. This heat will be especially dangerous for the very Young and old as well as those with chronic health conditions. The effects of high heat are cumulative, meaning the risk of heat related illness increases each day as the heat wave continues.
Precautionary/preparedness actions
Cooling centers are open or will be open in most of the major cities in the area. Check with the local authorities to find the
exact locations.
An excessive heat warning means that a prolonged period of dangerously hot temperatures will occur. The combination of hot
temperatures and high humidity will create a dangerous situation in which heat illnesses are likely.
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Drink plenty of fluids</li>
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Stay in an air-conditioned room</li>
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Stay out of the sun</li>
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Take plenty of breaks</li>
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Check up on relatives, neighbors and pets.</li>
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Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or late evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency: Call 9 1 1.