LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – A significant shift in weather will bring potentially dangerous heat to central Arkansas this week, with heat index values expected to soar past 100 degrees by Tuesday afternoon. While Monday may see some lingering showers and thunderstorms, the primary concern is the oppressive heat and humidity building for the remainder of the workweek and into the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Little Rock, Tuesday will be mostly sunny with a high near 90 degrees, but the humidity will make it feel as hot as 106. These hot and humid conditions are expected to persist across a large part of Arkansas through the upcoming weekend. Residents should take precautions against heat-related illness, especially during peak afternoon hours.
The abrupt change follows a Monday that could still produce scattered showers, primarily before 1 p.m., with a high of 85 degrees. By Tuesday, however, the rain chances diminish, and the heat takes full control. Officials advise residents to stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activities, and check on elderly family members and neighbors. Ensure pets have plenty of water and shade.
The pattern of extreme heat will continue through Wednesday, with mostly clear skies and a high near 93 degrees. A chance for showers and thunderstorms returns just in time for the Juneteenth holiday on Thursday and carries into Friday, though high temperatures will remain in the low 90s.
Here is the five-day outlook for Little Rock:
- TUESDAY: Mostly Sunny. High: 90°F, Low: 75°F. Heat index up to 106°F.
- WEDNESDAY: Mostly Clear. High: 93°F, Low: 73°F.
- THURSDAY (JUNETEENTH): Partly Sunny. High: 91°F, Low: 72°F. Chance of T-storms.
- FRIDAY: Mostly Sunny. High: 94°F, Low: 75°F.
- SATURDAY: Mostly Sunny. High: 96°F, Low: 76°F.
Warnings for heat will likely be updated as the week progresses. Stay tuned for further advisories from the National Weather Service.
