Heat wave affects region

Eight-year-old Lacie Marie Mitchell cools off Monday in a pool at her home. With temperatures climbing near the century mark every day this week, most Rector residents have chosen to just stay inside, but the few who venture out quickly seek shade or another way to cool down. (Democrat photo/Nancy Kemp) [Click to enlarge]

Dangerously high temperatures over the last few days, combined with a high dewpoint, have produced a heat index which has soared well over 100 degrees and made life outdoors miserable -- if not almost impossible.

And it appears there is no relief in sight until the weekend.

Highs are expected to remain in the 90s throughout the end of June, when weather services predict the 97, 98 and 99 degree days will switch to the 90 to 93 degree range. This small drop should cause the heat index to fall below the dangerous 100 degree level.

Welcomed scattered showers may come to the area this weekend, as the stifling heat has made the heavy rains from earlier in the month a dry, distant memory. Satellite forecasts indicate a 20 percent chance for small showers in northeast Arkansas on Thursday and Friday, with a stronger chance for heavier rains, perhaps even small storms, on Saturday and Sunday.

With the high heat levels, area residents are reminded to use precautions to avoid serious health risks related to high temperatures. Persons are advised to drink plenty of water to maintain their level of bodily fluids and avoid overexertion and prolonged exposure to high temperatures.

Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to heat exhaustion and eventually to heatstroke. Especially vulnerable people, such as the elderly, young children and those battling illness, can begin to suffer problems when the temperature rises into the 90s. By the time the thermometer tops 100, everybody is potentially at risk.

Heat exhaustion refers to overheating of the body due to excessive loss of water or, in rare cases, salt depletion. People who suffer from heat exhaustion have often been taking part in strenuous physical exercise such as working outdoors or even physically-demanding recreational activities such as hiking or sports.

Many doctors recommend persons limit their intake of sodas and alcoholic drinks during times of extreme heat, choosing instead water or fruit drinks which replenish the body. Other tips include: wear clothing that is light-colored and loose-fitting; avoid being outside during the mid-day and early afternoon hours when temperatures peak, and limit strenuous activity.

Residents also are encouraged to check on any neighbors who may be more susceptible to the heat. Pet owners are encouraged to take their pets indoors when temperatures are at their highest, as well as make sure that plenty of fresh, cool water is available to their animals.