The National Weather Service in Louisville has issued an excessive heat warning for Boyle and surrounding counties from Thursday afternoon to Sunday evening. “Thursday through Sunday are the critical times,” said Emergency Management Director Mike Wilder.

He cautioned people to be aware of how dangerous extreme heat can be. “Farmers think they’re invincible” because they’re used to the heat, Wilder said. “But extreme heat can kill you.”

Many people who work outside are used to hot weather, like 80 and 90 degrees. “But they’re not used to extreme temperatures of 105 to 110 heat index,” Wilder said, which will be what this area is predicted to experience for the next four days.

During an extreme heat warning, Wilder said people should stay inside air-conditioned buildings as much as possible.

If they don’t have AC in their homes, they can spend much of the day inside public buildings like the courthouse or public library, Wilder said.

According to the NWS, the heat index can reach near or above 105 degrees for several days in a row in Boyle County. The extreme heat can have a “cumulative impact on some individuals, especially those who engage in prolonged outdoor work or other activities.”

To help keep interiors cooler, Wilder suggested covering windows where the sun shines through. Weather-stripping doors and windows help keep cool air inside, just like when it’s done to help keep warm air inside during the winter months, he said.

He also said outdoor activities should be limited to early morning or after the sun goes down in the evenings. “And stay off asphalt and concrete because it stores heat. It’s just hot.”

To help prevent heat illness, Wilder said, “you’ve got to use common sense.” Drink more water and limit alcohol and caffeine drinks; wear loose fitting, light-weight clothing; stay out of the sun; and don’t leave children, the elderly or pets unattended inside vehicles. “Interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.”

Wilder said there are four kinds of heat illnesses to watch for: sunburn, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which is a severe medical emergency.

Someone suffering from heat stroke will have hot, red and dry skin; a weak pulse; shallow breathing; and won’t be sweating.

Cooling shelters can be opened if they’re needed, Wilder said. “If you feel like you’re going to be sick, please let us know,” by calling (859) 238-1220.