Paducah, Kentucky – Life-threatening heat will blanket western Kentucky Tuesday, July 22nd, as heat index values soar past 105° in cities like Paducah, Metropolis, and Cape Girardeau.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, an Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect through 7 p.m. Thursday, with daytime heat index values peaking between 105° and 110°. The worst of the heat arrives Tuesday afternoon, particularly along Interstate 24 and across southern Illinois and western Kentucky.
Health officials urge residents to limit outdoor activity, hydrate frequently, and check on elderly neighbors. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends frequent breaks and shaded rest for outdoor workers. Heat stroke is a medical emergency — call 911 if symptoms occur.
Thunderstorms may briefly interrupt the heat Tuesday evening, but widespread rain isn’t expected. Light winds will do little to cool conditions, with Paducah’s high near 96° and calm humidity keeping the heat oppressive into evening.
🔎 Five-Day Forecast: Paducah, KY
- Tuesday, July 22: High near 96°, heat index as high as 106°. Slight chance of p.m. thunderstorms (20%).
- Wednesday: Sunny and brutally hot, high near 98°. South wind picks up slightly.
- Thursday: Sunshine continues, high near 97°, heat advisory remains in effect.
- Friday: Chance of afternoon thunderstorms returns. High near 95°. South winds increase.
- Saturday & Sunday: Partly cloudy with on-and-off storm chances. Highs in the low to mid-90s, humidity remains high.
⚠️ More alerts may be issued if storm activity picks up or the heat expands across the region into the weekend. Stay tuned for updates from NWS Paducah.
