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Heat wave on its way

Nicholasville temperatures expected to hit near 100

June 27, 2012|Journal staff report | news@jessaminejournal.com

Old man summer is about to pull a one-two-three punch on Kentucky as high temperatures move into the state during the Thursday through Monday period making an already bad drought situation worse with little likelihood for rain any time soon. And that will increase the chance for wildfires — causing a number of communities across the state to ban outdoor burning.

Beginning Thursday and continuing at least until Monday, the National Weather Service said high temperatures will range from 95 to 100 degrees across Kentucky. With little or no rain expected, NWS said drought conditions will only worsen. The one bright spot is that humidity levels will stay relatively low, the weather service said.

Several counties have implemented burn bans. According to the state Division of Forestry, burn bans have been declared in these counties:

Ballard, Carlisle, Clark, Crittenden, Graves, Hickman, Henderson, Hopkins, Jessamine, Laurel, Madison, Marshall, McLean, Muhlenberg, Union, Webster and Whitley counties.

Fire officials in Hardin County nearly implemented a ban on personal fireworks but changed their minds. Such a ban would be hard to enforce so close to July 4th, they reasoned, and it would be a economic hardship on the many fireworks stands open in Hardin County. But officials are urging Hardin County residents, according to The News-Enteprise, to use extreme caution when setting off personal fireworks.

Safety Rules for Heat from the National Weather Service:

• Slow down. Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day, usually between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.

• Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.

• Foods that increase metabolic heat production and dehydration, such as proteins, should be avoided.

• Drink plenty of water. Drink water even if you do not yet feel thirsty.

• Avoid alcoholic beverages.

• Do not increase your salt intake unless directed by a physician.

• Spend as much time in air conditioning as possible.

• Stay out of the sun as much as possible. Sunburn will make it that much more difficult for your body to dissipate heat. When spending time in the sun, use a sunscreen with a high SPF.

• If suffering symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, get medical attention immediately.

• Do not leave people or pets in hot vehicles under any circumstances.

Source: Kentucky Press Association News Content Service.

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