Paducah, Kentucky – Triple-digit heat will blanket the tri-state region today, with heat index values soaring to 110° across southeast Missouri, western Kentucky, and far southern Illinois.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, an Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect until 7 p.m. CDT Thursday for counties including McCracken, Graves, Ballard, Cape Girardeau, Franklin, and Massac. The affected area stretches from Benton, Illinois to Metropolis, extending south through Paducah, Murray, and into the Missouri Bootheel.
High humidity paired with temperatures in the mid to upper 90s will create oppressive conditions, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, especially for outdoor workers and vulnerable populations. Car interiors can become deadly in minutes — never leave children or pets inside vehicles.
Cooling centers are open in several communities, including Paducah, Mayfield, and Carbondale. Residents are urged to stay indoors, limit strenuous activity, drink water regularly, and check on elderly neighbors and those without air conditioning.
The heat is expected to ease slightly by evening, but additional advisories may follow if conditions persist into Friday.
