The National Weather Service office in Paducah has issued a special weather statement this afternoon about a slight risk for severe storms, along with triple-digit heat indices for today.
Western Kentucky and southern Illinois are included in an area of slight risk that scattered storms could form from mid-morning into the afternoon. Those storms would be limited in duration and coverage, but could contain damaging winds and large hail, along with heavy rains and frequent lightning.
High humidity combined with actual temperatures in the mid-90s will result in maximum heat index values over 100.
Use extreme caution if you have to be outside for an extended period of time this afternoon.
The heat index on Thursday could reach 105 in some areas.