Jackson, Kentucky – Unrelenting heat will grip eastern Kentucky Tuesday as heat index values soar past 105°F, raising concerns for heat exhaustion and road safety.
According to the National Weather Service in Jackson, heat indices will peak between 100°F and 106°F from Tuesday, June 24, through Saturday. The worst heat will strike between 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. daily, particularly impacting low-lying valleys and major corridors like KY-15, I-75, and U.S. 421.
Most of the region — including Jackson, Pikeville, Hazard, and Morehead — faces elevated risk of heat-related illness. Overnight lows won’t drop below the mid-70s, offering little relief for residents and straining air conditioning systems. NWS warns that lack of nighttime cooling increases the potential for prolonged heat stress, especially for seniors and outdoor workers.
Temperatures in the mid to upper 90s will combine with humidity to produce oppressive conditions. Residents should limit outdoor activity, hydrate frequently, and check on vulnerable neighbors. Never leave children or pets in vehicles — interior temps can rise above 130°F in minutes.
Scattered afternoon thunderstorms may develop Tuesday through Thursday but will offer only brief relief. Expect better storm chances Friday into Saturday.
Five-Day Forecast for Jackson (June 24–28):
- Tuesday: Sunny, high 97°F. Heat index near 106°F.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high 98°F. Patchy morning fog.
- Thursday: 30% chance of p.m. storms, high 96°F.
- Friday: 40% chance of storms, high 94°F. Muggy and humid.
- Saturday: Showers and storms likely. High near 90°F. Slightly cooler with 60% rain chance.
