Russellville, Arkansas – A dangerous stretch of heat is gripping western and central Arkansas, with heat advisories in effect through 8 p.m. Friday as heat index values climb as high as 109 degrees. Residents from Johnson and Logan counties down to Conway and Yell are being urged to take immediate action to avoid heat-related illnesses as the worst conditions settle in through Friday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Little Rock, the advisory covers Southern Johnson, Southern and Eastern Logan, Western and Northern Logan, Conway, Faulkner, Perry, Southern Pope, and Yell counties. Heat index values will top 106 degrees Thursday, rising even higher Friday. Emergency managers are warning that even brief outdoor activity can quickly become dangerous in these temperatures.
Cities including Hartman, Coal Hill, Clarksville, Paris, Booneville, Russellville, Morrilton, and Conway are expected to see the highest risk, especially during the late afternoon hours. Power grids and first responders are on alert for increased calls as the heat strains air conditioning and increases risk for those without access to cooling. Health officials recommend drinking water frequently, checking on neighbors, and limiting time outside, especially for children, seniors, and pets. Anyone working outdoors should take frequent shaded breaks, wear light clothing, and know the warning signs of heat exhaustion.
The current advisory remains in place until 8 p.m. Friday, and additional heat alerts are possible if the pattern holds through the weekend. Stay tuned for updates and take extra precautions as this dangerous heat persists.
