Western Kentucky Heat Wave: 99°F Highs and Heat Advisory Before Storms Arrive Overnight

PADUCAH, KENTUCKY — Western Kentucky endured one of its hottest days of the summer Tuesday, with temperatures climbing toward 99°F and heat index values topping 105°F. A Heat Advisory remained in effect until 7 p.m. for Paducah and surrounding counties, warning residents of dangerous outdoor conditions.

Heat Builds Into the Afternoon

The National Weather Service in Paducah reported that oppressive heat would linger through Tuesday afternoon, creating hazardous conditions for anyone spending extended time outside. Officials urged residents to:

• Limit time outdoors during peak hours.
• Drink water frequently to avoid dehydration.
• Postpone strenuous activities until evening.

Counties under the advisory include McCracken, Ballard, and Livingston, where medical officials reminded residents to check on vulnerable neighbors, especially the elderly and those without air conditioning.

Storm Chances Increase After Sunset

Clouds began building Tuesday afternoon, bringing with them a 20% chance of thunderstorms after 2 p.m.. The storm threat rises significantly overnight, with forecasters predicting a 50% chance of showers and storms before midnight, followed by lingering rain into Wednesday morning.

Drivers are advised to remain cautious on I-24 and U.S. 60, where sudden downpours could create slick roads and sharply reduce visibility.

Heat Eases Midweek

Relief from the extreme heat is expected midweek. Highs on Wednesday will reach around 92°F, with lower humidity settling in by Thursday. The second half of the week will feel more seasonal, with daytime highs near 90°F Thursday and Friday under mostly sunny skies.

Five-Day Forecast for Paducah

• Tuesday: High near 99°F; 20% chance of storms after 2 p.m. Heat Advisory until 7 p.m.
• Tuesday Night: Showers and storms likely before midnight, low near 74°F.
• Wednesday: High near 92°F; 20% chance of storms early, partly cloudy later.
• Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 89°F.
• Friday: Sunny and warm, high near 93°F.
• Saturday: Mostly sunny, high near 91°F.

Western Kentucky residents — how did you handle today’s triple-digit heat index in Paducah and surrounding counties? Share your tips and storm reports in the comments, and keep following ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com for more regional weather updates.