ARKANSAS, USA — Excessive summer heat is returning across Arkansas throughout the rest of the workweek, from July 29th through August 2nd.
A heat dome is setting up directly over the Central U.S. and will be providing some extreme heat. Here at home, temperatures are expected to range between the mid-90s and to 100 degrees. When you factor in the humidity, heat index values will be anywhere from 100° to 110° through Friday.
Warm moist air is being pumped in from the south throughout this uncomfortable stretch, that will only fuel the heat index in Arkansas. Winds start to weaken a bit towards the end the week which may provide some relief in the way of a few degrees.
Not much relief is expected this week, as high pressure is setting up. Everyday this week should be looked at with some precaution, and being aware of the signs for heat related illness.
Heat alerts have been issued for Wednesday, July, 31st. Heat advisories and excessive heat warnings should be expected throughout most of this upcoming week.
Heat Index this week
- Northwest Arkansas: 100° to 107°
- River Valley: 105° to 112°
- Central Arkansas: 105° to 112°
- Jonesboro: 105° to 115°
- Texarkana: 105° to 110°
The ridge of high pressure parked over Arkansas and Oklahoma this week will slide back west towards the Rockies for the weekend. This opens the door for a weak summer cold front to move in Thursday night into Friday. While it's not going to bring major relief, it's going to provide just enough to briefly break the state out of this stretch of dangerous heat. At best, temperatures will only be around 3 to 4 degrees cooler for the weekend.
Temperatures through this upcoming weekend are expected to still remain in the 90s. The front will also provide some spotty shower activity. As of right now, many will stay dry. Check back for updates.
Stay hydrated!