With the heat wave that has been predicted by the meteorologists as the worst in the history of Lexington, the city officials and the residents are now trying to get ready for the hot days that are to come. The National Weather Service has put Central Kentucky under an excessive heat warning with temperatures predicted to rise to over thirty five degrees for the next few days.

The next heat wave is expected to surpass the records set in 1936 when Lexington had its hottest day on record at 108F. According to the local meteorologists, the heat is expected to intensify with temperatures expected to rise to 110 degrees by the middle of the week with no sign of rain in the near future.

Due to the extreme weather condition that is expected to affect the city, the Mayor Linda Gorton has declared the opening of several cooling centers in the city. These air-conditioned facilities will act as a shelter for the most susceptible individuals such as the senior citizens, children and the sick who cannot afford air conditioning.

The Lexington Public Library branches, community centers and some selected schools will be opened to accommodate people who need to escape from the heat during the extended hours.

The Lexington-Fayette County Health Department has provided the following tips for people to protect themselves from the heat wave. These are; drinking water, not going out during the hottest part of the day, and checking on the elderly neighbors and relatives. The department has also cautioned that there is a higher likelihood of heat-related diseases including heat exhaustion and heat stroke and advised people to seek medical assistance if they develop signs of the diseases.

The power utility companies are anticipating a rise in energy consumption due to the use of air conditioners which are working round the clock to counter the heat. Kentucky Utilities has stated that measures have been put in place to prevent blackouts or brownouts but has urged consumers to use power sparingly especially in the hours when there is high demand.

The high temperatures are also a cause of worry as to the effects that these temperatures may have on agriculture in the region. Farmers in Fayette County and other neighboring counties have said that they are experiencing stress in their crops and livestock. The University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment has released warning to farmers on how to prevent heat stress on animals and plants.

With the city preparing for this historical weather event, various groups are coming forward to help the vulnerable groups. Some of the local churches and non-profit organizations have initiated water distribution and are also visiting the home bound to check on their health. The Salvation Army of Central Kentucky has also released information about extended hours of operation for the cooling shelters and has put out a call for more volunteers to help with the task of spreading the word.

As the heat wave is expected to continue for at least another week, Lexington residents are encouraged to do everything possible to protect themselves and help others in the community in this difficult period. As the city is hit with this extreme weather event, the heart and spirit of the people of Lexington will no doubt be challenged.