Lexington extreme heat warning: Temperatures above 90 degrees expected all week

A major heat wave is expected to push temperatures into the 90s and the heat index value above 100 degrees every day this week.

The National Weather Service initially issued a heat advisory for Lexington and most of the state ahead of the incoming heat wave, but at 11:47 a.m. on Monday, the advisory was upgraded to an extreme heat warning. The NWS said dangerously hot conditions will take place until Thursday evening, and heat index values could reach between 100 and 115 degrees.

The heat index, also known as the apparent temperature, is what the temperature actually feels like when factoring in the humidity, according to the NWS. It’s often times slightly higher than the raw temperature.

Heat index is a combination of the actual temperature and humidity in an area, often times higher than the raw temperature.

Daily high temperatures in the low to mid 90s and heat index values between 100 and 110 degrees are expected during the heat wave, according to the NWS. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday are expected to be the hottest days, and there is a major risk for heat-related illness.

The NWS’ seven-day forecast for Lexington predicts daily high temperatures of at least 90 degrees every day from Monday through at least Sunday, topping out at 95 degrees Wednesday and Thursday. There are small chances for showers and thunderstorms beginning Friday.

Lexington activated phase one of its heat plan from Monday to Thursday. Activating the heat plan opens cooling centers across the city, offers additional transportation services and sends outreach teams into the community to distribute necessary supplies.

In order to stay cool, the NWS recommended people to avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day and to stay in air-conditioned environments. If outdoor activity is required, the NWS recommended people to hydrate and wear lightweight and light-colored clothing.