Metro residents cope as heat wave begins | News

LOUISVILLE, KY (WAVE) - As Louisville Metro baked Thursday under the beginnings a heat wave that saw temperatures soar to 100 degrees by mid-afternoon, a hydration station helped passersby downtown quench their thirst.

The Louisville Water Company set up a 'Pure Tap To Go' water station on Jefferson Street in front of Metro Hall as temps soared. We asked Channa Newman, a LWC spokesperson, the reasoning behind the location selection.

"It's one of many locations we considered choosing. We know there's a lot of traffic, foot traffic, throughout the day," Newman said. "We are looking at other options and possibilities of setting this up to reach more people."

Another Louisville Pure Tap unit will be set up on Independence Day at Waterfront Park.

Tim Crain is part of the workforce out in the summer heat. Crain, a letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service, adjusted his route so he could deliver mail in a shaded area when temps reached the highest.

"I let my supervisor know that I've changed it up," said Crain. "Usually, during the the hottest part of the day, there's no shade. I've adjusted my schedule so I'm not out in the sun later in the day."

The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday. The only ray of comfort in the coming days will be low humidity levels. As a result, the heat index will be only slightly higher than the actual temperatures.

Experts advise workers to take frequent breaks in the shade, avoid carbonated drinks and drinking plenty of water, even when you're not thirsty.

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