Recent analysis from the Climate Prediction Center forecasts drought conditions in central Kentucky will persist through the end of the summer. That’s despite a storm front moving through the state that’s expected to bring scattered showers and storms though the end of this week.
Ed Ray is a meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Jackson. Ray said instead of a typical 20 to 30 percent chance of rain, there’s around a 40 to 60 percent chance this week.
“Which means there’s a much better chance of seeing rain, better chance of seeing higher amounts. And on the average, you know, while it may not be a lot, you know, it'll keep things from maybe getting worse. That's what we're kind of hoping for,” said Ray.
Ray said it's unlikely the state will get enough rain to significantly help drought conditions, as next week looks to be dry again.
However, the NWS meteorologist said the precipitation should bring the dew point down to make it feel less muggy outside.
“With the slightly cooler temperatures, instead of like being in the 90s, it'll be in the mid to upper 80s, maybe lower 90s in some places. So, it'll provide a little bit of a break from the heat, just a little bit of a break from the humidity, we won't see as high as heat indices, for example,” said Ray.
Temperatures this week have been in the 90s with heat index values reaching more than 100 degrees. Central areas are under a heat advisory until 9 p.m. Wednesday.
