Little Rock, Arkansas – Dry weather and increasingly receptive fuels are raising fire danger concerns across much of Arkansas today and into the upcoming week, with officials urging residents to use caution as conditions remain unfavorable for outdoor burning.
According to the National Weather Service in Little Rock, much of the state has experienced well below normal rainfall over the past month, with portions of west-central and north-central Arkansas receiving less than 10 percent of their typical 30-day rainfall. As a result, vegetation has dried significantly, setting the stage for elevated fire danger, especially this afternoon.
Relative humidity values are expected to drop sharply today, with many areas seeing a high probability of dewpoints falling below 10 degrees during the afternoon hours. Central Arkansas, including Little Rock, Conway, Hot Springs, Russellville, and Searcy, will see humidity levels low enough to support rapid fire spread if ignitions occur. Afternoon high temperatures will range from the mid-40s to lower 50s statewide, adding to drying conditions.
While winds are not expected to be extreme, even modest breezes combined with dry fuels can allow fires to grow quickly and escape control. The risk is highest across interior sections of the state where vegetation has not seen meaningful moisture in weeks.
Dry weather is expected to persist through much of the coming week. Temperatures will gradually warm into midweek before another cold front arrives, bringing a return to more seasonable conditions but little meaningful rainfall. Short-term fuels are already trending toward critically low moisture levels, increasing concern for grass and brush fires.
Residents are advised to avoid outdoor burning, properly dispose of cigarettes, and refrain from activities that could generate sparks. Vehicles should be kept off dry grass, and equipment use should be done with caution.
Fire danger may fluctuate day to day, but officials stress that dry conditions remain in place statewide. Additional fire weather statements or advisories could be issued as conditions evolve through the week.
