A dangerous heat wave is sweeping across Arkansas, with heat index values reaching as high as 110°F in Monroe, Woodruff, Desha, and other counties this Thursday. The Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect until 8 p.m., bringing sweltering conditions that can lead to heat-related health risks.
Extreme Heat Warning for Several Arkansas Counties
According to the National Weather Service in Little Rock, the Extreme Heat Warning covers a wide region of Arkansas, including cities such as Stuttgart, Brinkley, De Witt, Dumas, McGehee, Clarendon, Augusta, McCrory, and Cotton Plant.
The heat will be especially dangerous during the hottest hours of the day, between noon and 6 p.m., when the risk for heat exhaustion and heat stroke sharply increases.
Health Risks and Safety Tips
This extreme heat is among the highest Arkansas has seen this summer, and it comes with serious risks:
Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke: Prolonged exposure to the heat can lead to heat exhaustion and even heat stroke, which are life-threatening conditions.
Increased Risk for Vulnerable Groups: The elderly, young children, and pets are particularly vulnerable to extreme heat. It’s important to check on neighbors, especially those who are elderly or have health issues, to ensure they are staying cool and hydrated.
Emergency officials are urging residents to take the following precautions:
Stay Indoors: If possible, stay inside with air conditioning. Avoid outdoor activities, especially during the peak heat hours from noon to 6 p.m..
Dress Appropriately: If you must go outside, wear loose, light-colored clothing, and take frequent breaks in the shade or indoors.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and avoid drinks that may dehydrate you, like alcohol or caffeine.
Never Leave Children or Pets in Vehicles: Temperatures inside a parked car can rise rapidly to dangerous levels, even on relatively mild days. It only takes a few minutes for the inside of a car to become life-threatening.
Impact on Utilities and Outdoor Workers
Due to the extreme heat, utilities may experience higher demand as more people turn on air conditioning. Power outages are possible, so it’s a good idea to prepare by charging mobile devices and having backup power sources available.
Local health providers are preparing for an increase in heat-related emergencies, and outdoor workers are advised to take frequent breaks, stay hydrated, and follow OSHA guidelines for working in extreme heat.
What to Expect
This heatwave is one of the most extreme Arkansas has experienced this July, echoing similar heat events from 2021. With the warning set to expire at 8 p.m., residents are encouraged to stay vigilant. If the extreme heat continues into the evening or the next day, further advisories may be issued.
Arkansas residents, especially in Monroe, Desha, and surrounding counties, must take extra precautions to stay safe in today’s extreme heat. With 110°F heat index values and a heightened risk of heat exhaustion, it’s critical to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities, and check on vulnerable family members and neighbors. The heat warning remains in effect until 8 p.m., and additional updates may follow.
