Another Hot and Humid Day Across the Commonwealth

Plenty of sunshine and heat now, with hit-or-miss storms by the weekend.

Dry Weather Holds, But the Heat is the Big Story

We are locked into a classic late-July pattern across Central and Eastern Kentucky, with plenty of sunshine, just a few scattered clouds, and limited rain chances. High pressure stretching across the region has kept most of us dry, a nice change after the frequent daily storm chances earlier this month. Afternoon highs on Thursday will once again climb into the low 90s, and with humidity levels running high, heat index values will feel closer to 100 degrees or slightly higher—especially west of Lexington.

A Heat Advisory remains in effect Thursday for areas stretching from Frankfort to Campbellsville and westward, where heat indices could push well above the century mark. If you’re going to be outdoors for any length of time, make sure you stay hydrated, take breaks in the shade, and avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day. While the overall pattern is dry, a stray afternoon storm can’t be ruled out, especially closer to the Ohio River, but most spots will stay rain-free.

Friday Brings More of the Same

The heat and humidity won’t be letting up Friday. Highs will again top out in the low 90s, with heat indices in the upper 90s to near 100 degrees. A weakening cold front will hang out just to our north across the Ohio Valley, but it won’t have much of an impact here aside from a few isolated afternoon storms, mainly near the Ohio River. For most of us, it will be another hot and muggy day with only a passing cloud or two to provide temporary relief from the sunshine.

Weekend Storm Chances Increase Slightly

The stalled boundary to our north will sag closer to the Ohio Valley this weekend, giving us a slightly better shot at scattered afternoon and evening storms Saturday and Sunday. While it won’t be a washout, a few storms could bring brief heavy downpours and gusty winds. Outdoor plans don’t need to be canceled, but keep the umbrella or rain gear handy just in case. Temperatures will remain hot, with highs staying in the low 90s both days.

Turning Even Hotter Early Next Week

As we head into the final days of July, the ridge of high pressure will strengthen over the Ohio Valley, locking in a stretch of even hotter and drier weather. Afternoon highs could surge into the mid-90s by Monday and Tuesday, and when you factor in the humidity, heat index values could reach the danger zone of 100-105 degrees. Storm chances will be very limited during this stretch, so heat safety will remain a top priority heading into early next week.