KENTUCKY — Nearly 40% of the U.S. population faces stark heat advisories through Friday, including the entirety of Kentucky. Afternoon highs are expected to soar between 100 and 105 degrees, and local officials are making plans to help Kentuckians cool off.

What You Need To Know

  • Nearly 40% of the U.S. population faces stark heat advisories through Friday, including the entirety of Kentucky

  • Cooling centers are being opened across the state to help residents stay cool and safe

  • Lexington opened four cooling centers, and Louisville's public libraries will serve as cooling centers

  • Public malls and museums are other great places to stay cool

The combo of hot temperatures and high humidity will increase the threat of heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Staying hydrated and limiting time outdoors are the best ways to avoid heat-related illness. 

(National Weather Service)

 

Dressing in light, loose-fitting clothes will also help keep your body core temperature regulated. In addition, keep a close eye on children, pets and older adults in the days ahead.

Public malls, museums and other large buildings with air conditioning are great places to keep cool. You can always call 2-1-1 for help finding official cooling centers near you.

Here's how to find help in some of Kentucky's most populous areas.

Lexington

Lexington Emergency Management declared a "Phase 2 Heat Watch" through Saturday, July 29. As part of the city's plan, Parks and Recreation will offer discounted pool admission and LEXTRAN will provide free transportation to cooling centers.

The city's designated cooling centers are:

  • Dunbar Community Center, 545 North Upper Street
  • Tates Creek Golf Course Ballroom, 1400 Gainesway Drive
  • Lexington Parks  Headquarters, 469 Parkway Drive
  • Lexington Senior Center,  195 Life Lane, off Richmond Road

These centers will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. through July 29.

Louisville

All branches of the Louisville Free Public Library serve as cooling stations during dangerously high heat events. Jefferson County residents can also seek out the St. Matthews and Oxmoor malls to access free air conditioning and stay safe, Louisville Metro Emergency Management said.

Louisville Metro Government also announced the following cooling centers:

  • Neighborhood Place locations - There are eight locations throughout Louisville. To find the nearest location, call 311 or 502-574-5000
  • Community Centers - Louisville Metro Parks and Recreation's 14 community center throughout the city
  • Senior Nutrition Sites - The Louisville Metro Senior Nutrition Program operates 14 sites
  • Operation White Flag shelters:  
    • Wayside Christian Mission (accepts cats and dogs), 432 E. Jefferson St.
    • Salvation Army Center (day shelter only), 911 S. Brook St.

The city also said when Operation White Flag is in effect, TARC fares are waived for those needing transportation to one of the participating shelters. 

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