Dangerous Heat Arrives In Ohio Valley

Temperatures in the west of the state are expected to reach and stay in the high 90s through the end of the week. The worst of the heat will center around the Ohio Valley, but the entire state will see temperatures rise into the low 90s 

Tuesday morning the National Weather Service placed 17 counties under a heat advisory starting at 1p.m. and extending to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 2. Ray Young, a National Weather Service meteorologist in Charleston, said humidity will drive the heat index into the 100s. 

“We’re going to have apparent temperatures in the 100 (degree) to 105-degree range. That’s the temperature it feels like,” Young said. “Even the actual temperatures will stay in the 90s. And the combination of humidity will help it to be uncomfortable and potentially dangerous for people working outside.” 

According to Young, a high-pressure system centered over the east coast is pulling hot air and humidity up from the south. He said the current heat advisory for the region that extends from Huntington to Flatwoods, Parkersburg to Whitesville is in effect through Wednesday evening but is likely to extend into Thursday when storms are expected. 

“The heat is going to also cause a residual effect with that cold front bringing thunderstorms in. The thunderstorms on Thursday could be severe,” Young said. “So people need to be aware of that and be prepared to stay safe on Thursday as those thunderstorms rumble late in the day.” 

Young said anyone working or spending time outside needs to take lots of breaks and stay hydrated.

“Try to get your body cooled back off by either getting in the shade or getting in the air conditioner while you’re taking that break so that your body can cool back off and start fresh when you go back out,” he said.

The City of Huntington announced Monday afternoon that they would open at least 10 cooling stations across the community. The release also designated all Cabell County library branches as cooling stations. 

“Residents are encouraged to take precautions during periods of extreme heat, including staying hydrated, limiting strenuous outdoor activity and checking on family members, friends and neighbors who may be especially vulnerable to high temperatures,” the Huntington press release said. 

Residents in other counties and communities under the heat advisory should call 211 for help locating cooling stations in their area.