Excessive heat warning issued through midnight Sunday

The National Weather Service in Louisville this afternoon issued an excessive heat warning for Spencer County, which runs through midnight Sunday.

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

Heat index values could reach 105 degrees today.

The prior heat advisory is no longer in effect.

Heat index values are predicted to reach between 105 to 115 degrees, according to the warning.

Citizens are encouraged to keep cool and hydrated.

"The extended period of heat will also cause drought conditions to worsen and raise concern for wildfire development across the area," the warning says.

Fifty-one of Kentucky's 120 counties have issued a burn ban; however, an official burn ban has not been issued in Spencer County.

Citizens are advised to use extreme caution with fireworks during their Independence Day celebrations.

"As of right now, acting on the side of safety, I wouldn't be setting off any fireworks," Taylorsville-Spencer County Fire Chief Nathan Nation said Thursday. "But that could change between now and the Fourth."

Citizens are advised to "wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water," the warning says.

"To reduce the risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments," the warning says. "Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency, call 911."

High temperatures are predicted to top 100 degrees Saturday and Sunday. The five-day forecast for Spencer County shows the best chance of precipitation on Sunday with a 30 percent chance of isolated thunderstorms.