Heat advisory in effect through tonight
Heat advisories are in effect across Arkansas as triple-digit temperatures are forecast for the region.
The National Weather Service said Friday that the advisories will remain in effect until 8 p.m. today throughout Arkansas.
Forecasters said afternoon high temperatures will range from the mid-90s to the mid-100s through today. Extreme heat and high humidity will create heat index values of up to 110 degrees. The heat index is a measurement of how air feels on skin when combining the temperature with relative humidity. Overnight temperatures will provide little relief from the heat, especially in urban areas.
According to the weather service, conditions may lead to heat stroke and dehydration for people who are working outdoors. Emergency Medical Services Authority advises people to stay hydrated, wear light-colored clothing and limit time spent outdoors, if possible.
Conway and Camden reached 99 degrees — the highest marks in the state so far this year. Fort Smith, Batesville and Walnut Ridge all saw highs of 97 degrees, and Hot Springs reached 96 degrees.
According to the Arkansas Department of Health, when the humidity is high, sweat does not evaporate as quickly, which can prevent the body from releasing heat as fast as it should.
Meteorologist Charles Dalton of the National Weather Service in North Little Rock told the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette that the state’s heat is the result of a ridge of high pressure stalled over eastern Oklahoma and Texas. The ridge, which also was responsible for wildfires in California and Nevada, blocks rain-producing systems from forming over the state and instead deflects them.
Forecasters call for a slight break in the heat
Sunday as the high pressure ridge “breaks down” and moves west. There is a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms from Sunday evening through Tuesday, Dalton said. The southeastern half of the state is more likely to see rain, he said.
Temperatures are expected to drop a few degrees during a brief break before warming to the mid- and upper 90s later next week.
In extreme heat, the Arkansas Department of Health advises people to:
• drink plenty of fluids;
• wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen;
• schedule outdoor activities carefully;
• pace activity;
• stay cool indoors;
• take cool showers or baths to cool down;
• check on friends or neighbors;
• never leave children or pets in cars; and
• use common sense.
For those without air conditioning, it is advised they go to public places such as schools, libraries, theaters or malls for relief from the heat.