A strong west to southwest flow will pump in some very hot and humid air into Kentuckiana this afternoon. High temperatures today will be in the mid and upper 90s. However, that is only half of the story... Our dew points now are near 70 degrees, but out to our west they are in the mid to upper 70s and that oppressive air is heading our way. By this afternoon we will be looking at a Heat Index ranging 100 to 108! With values this high sunstroke, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke can be a very serious problem!

The Heat Index (HI) is the temperature the body feels when heat and humidity are combined. The table below correlates the actual temperature and relative humidity, producing a HI. (This chart is based upon shady, light wind conditions. Exposure to full sunshine can increase the HI by up to 15°F.)

Any value less than 80 is considered comfortable.
Any value greater than 90 is considered extreme.
Any value greater than 100 is considered hazardous.
Any value greater than 110 is considered dangerous.

Heat Index and Possible Heat Disorder

80°F to 90°F Fatigue possible with prolonged exposure and physical activity.

90°F to 105°F Sunstroke, heat cramps and heat exhaustion possible.

105°F to 130°F Sunstroke, heat cramps, and heat exhaustion likely, and
heat stroke possible.

130°F or greater Heat stroke highly likely with continued exposure.

Tips to Keep You Safe...

- Drink plenty of fluids (water), even if you don't feel thirsty
- Don't drink alcohol
- Slow down... Limit your time outdoors and strenuous activities
- Wear light colored clothing and sunscreen
- Remember to check on the elderly and the very young
- Don't forget about your pets
- Spend more time in air condition buildings

Now for a little good news... We will only have to put up with this heat for one day. A cold front will be pushing through the region Tuesday night and Wednesday ushering in some much cooler air by the end of the week. (The front however, may trigger some strong storms)

Stay cool and safe!

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