Dangerous heat continues through the Fourth of July as isolated storm chances return
Dangerous Heat Continues Across the Bluegrass
It’s another hot and muggy day across central Kentucky, and the summer heat is showing no signs of letting up just yet. Temperatures have already climbed into the mid to upper 80s this morning and will continue rising into the low to mid 90s this afternoon. Combined with high humidity, it will feel much hotter outside, with heat index values climbing into the 100 to 105+ degree range across much of the area.
The Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect through 9 p.m. this evening. Once it expires, a Heat Advisory will take over for much of the Bluegrass and points south, while portions of Eastern Kentucky will continue under an Extreme Heat Warning through Saturday evening as dangerous heat persists through the Fourth of July holiday.
This prolonged stretch of hot and humid weather continues to increase the risk for heat-related illnesses, especially for anyone spending extended periods outdoors.
Heat Safety Remains a Top Priority
Afternoon temperatures will remain in the low to mid 90s through the holiday weekend, while overnight lows only fall into the 70s. That limited overnight cooling doesn’t give your body much of a chance to recover from the daytime heat.
If you’ll be spending time outdoors over the next several days, especially for holiday festivities, remember to:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Take frequent breaks in the shade or inside air conditioning.
- Limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the afternoon.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
- Never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles.
- Check on elderly neighbors, family members, and anyone without reliable air conditioning.
A Few Storms Could Pop Up This Afternoon and Evening
While the heat will be the main weather story today, we’ll also be watching for isolated showers and thunderstorms later this afternoon and evening.
The atmosphere remains extremely unstable thanks to the heat and humidity, but storms still need something to get them started. Weak boundaries left behind from yesterday’s storms, along with afternoon heating, may be enough to spark isolated thunderstorms across parts of the viewing area.
Not everyone will see rain, and many communities will stay dry. However, any storm that does develop could quickly become strong. The main threats will be damaging wind gusts from collapsing thunderstorms, frequent lightning, and brief torrential downpours. Because storms will be slow-moving, localized heavy rainfall is possible, though widespread flooding is not expected.
Most storms should weaken fairly quickly after sunset as daytime heating fades.
Fourth of July Forecast: Hot, Humid, But Not a Washout
If you’re heading out to celebrate Independence Day, expect another very warm day with highs once again reaching the low to mid 90s. Heat index values will climb into the triple digits during the afternoon, making it another day to take heat precautions seriously.
Isolated to scattered showers and thunderstorms are possible during the afternoon and early evening hours. These will be typical summertime storms that develop in the heat of the day, and while a few could produce gusty winds and heavy rainfall, many locations may stay dry.
The good news is that once we lose the daytime heating, storms should begin to fade. At this point, conditions look favorable for many fireworks displays Friday evening, although you’ll still want to check the latest forecast before heading out.
Storm Chances Increase Through the Weekend
Rain chances don’t end after the Fourth of July. Daily opportunities for showers and thunderstorms will continue through the weekend and into early next week.
By Sunday, a weak front approaching the Ohio Valley should provide a better focus for thunderstorms, resulting in greater coverage across the region. While widespread severe weather is not expected, a few storms could produce gusty winds, intense lightning, and heavy rainfall. Localized flash flooding can’t be ruled out where storms repeatedly move over the same areas.
As rain chances increase, temperatures should ease back just a bit, with highs generally settling into the upper 80s and lower 90s while humidity remains elevated.
ABC 36 Storm Team 36-Hour Forecast
Friday: Hot and humid with mostly sunny skies. Afternoon highs in the low to mid 90s with heat index values between 100 and 110 degrees. Isolated to scattered afternoon and evening showers and thunderstorms are possible. Any stronger storm could produce gusty winds, frequent lightning, and heavy downpours.
Friday Night: Partly cloudy, warm, and muggy. Any evening showers or storms will gradually diminish after sunset, with overnight lows only falling into the low to mid 70s.
Saturday (Independence Day): Another hot and humid day with highs in the low to mid 90s and heat index values once again climbing into the triple digits. Isolated to scattered afternoon and evening thunderstorms are possible, but many communities should remain dry. Storms are expected to weaken after sunset, allowing for generally favorable conditions for most evening fireworks displays.
