With Election Day only a week away, anticipation builds in Kentucky, where officials are preparing for what could be a record voter turnout.

In Jefferson County specifically, 20 early voting locations are set to open later this week to manage the expected influx of voters.

The high stakes of the 2024 presidential race, with candidates polling neck-and-neck, are contributing to expectations of long lines at the polls.

"We expect a mammoth turnout in this election," said Kentucky Secretary of State Michael Adams during a press conference in Louisville on Tuesday afternoon.

To alleviate pressures on Election Day, early voting begins Thursday with 20 locations spread across Jefferson County.

Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg said, "Again, in early voting on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, you can vote at any one of these 20 locations," making voting more accessible.

Previous elections saw 2.1 million Kentuckians cast votes, but Adams forecasts up to 2.5 million this year.

Stressing the importance of voter preparedness, he said, "Be informed when you vote. You can have notes. It's perfectly fine."

While there's a four-minute limit for casting ballots, Adams notes it's seldom enforced but may be necessary to keep lines moving.

Jefferson County Clerk Bobbie Holsclaw reminds voters that all precincts will be open on Election Day, allowing residents to vote conveniently at their home precincts.

Early voting starts Thursday, with locations operating from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Saturday.

Residents can find their polling sites at GOVOTE.KY.GOV, and visit WLKY.COM for a comprehensive voter guide.