Paducah, Kentucky – Much of the lower Midwest is baking under dangerous heat Friday as a heat advisory remains in effect for southern Illinois, western Kentucky, southeast Missouri, and parts of southwest Indiana. Heat index values could climb to 105° by mid-afternoon, prompting officials to warn of heat-related illnesses.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, the advisory is in effect until 7 p.m. CDT (8 p.m. EDT), covering cities including Paducah, Carbondale, Evansville, Cape Girardeau, and Hopkinsville. The combination of high humidity and soaring temperatures could quickly lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, especially for those without adequate cooling or hydration.
In Illinois, residents of Carbondale, Marion, and Harrisburg are urged to avoid outdoor activities during peak heat. In Kentucky, McCracken, Graves, and Christian counties will see oppressive humidity lasting into the evening hours. Missouri communities like Poplar Bluff and New Madrid are also included, with little relief expected before sunset.
Emergency management agencies advise staying in air-conditioned spaces, drinking plenty of water, and checking on elderly neighbors. Limit outdoor work to early morning or late evening hours and watch for symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, or nausea.
The heat advisory will expire at 7 p.m., but continued warmth is expected through the weekend. Further advisories may be issued if conditions persist.
