NEWS--City Director Peggy Maruthur To Host Town Hall Meeting August 27, 2011 District One City Director Peggy Maruthur has announced that she will host a "Town Hall Meeting" to discuss the construction, operation and maintenance for a new jail. The meeting will take the form of an "Q&A" session with guest speakers Rick Davis, Garland County Judge, and Larry Saunders, Garland County Sheriff, available to answer questions from attendees.The meeting will be held at the Tower of Strength Ministries, 315 Park Avenue on Saturday, August 27, 2011 at 4:00 pm. The meeting is open to the public and is intended to be an opportunity for residents of the Whittington Valley and Park Avenue to learn about the proposed new jail. According to an email from Director Maruthur, the purpose of the meeting is "...answer questions regarding the facts surrounding the proposed new jail. We want to provide the voters in Garland County with accurate information so they can make an informed vote on October 11, 2011."
Those wishing to know more about the meeting can contact Director Maruthur at (501) 624-1965.
- Posted 8/24/11 by MT
NEWS--Habitat Dedicates a New House In The Whittington ValleyUnder warm and sunny skies, a group of about sixty people gathered early on Saturday, August 20th, 2011 to dedicate a new house in the Whittington Valley. The four bedroom, one and a half bath residence, built by Garland County Habitat for Humanity, is at the west end of the Valley, just across from the city park. With yellow siding, distinctive dark shutters and a covered front porch, the cozy house will be home to Latoya Duncan and her children.
 Friends and well-wishers gather for the dedication of a newly constructed house at the west end of the Whittington Valley. The new house will be home to Latoya Duncan and her children.
The dedication ceremony began with a flag raising. The national anthem was played by a lone bugler. Habitat Executive Director John Goodman began by welcoming everyone to the dedication and extending a special thanks to Advance Care Hospital for sponsoring construction of the new home. National Park Community College’s Residential Carpentry Program was also singled out for their assistance in constructing the new house.
Several guests then addressed the assembled group of well-wishers. Mark Toth, president of the Whittington Valley Neighborhood Association, presented the Ms. Duncan and her family with a “Welcome to the Valley” gift bag containing homemade brownies, a set of the Association’s handmade greeting cards and other gifts. Marilyn Davis from the "Sew What" Quilting Bee presented a large handmade quilt to Duncan. Painter Florence Davis with the “Brush Strokes” artists group presented a large original painting to the new home owner. “We believe every home should have some original art,” Davis said as she handled Duncan a framed painting featuring white orchids. A member of the Garland County Master gardeners presented Duncan with gardening equipment for her new yard. A representative from the Community of Christ Church presented Duncan with dishes and flatware. And Steve Trusty, Board President of Garland County Habitat for Humanity, presented Duncan and her family with a new bible.
 Members of the "Sew What" Quilting Bee present a large handmade quilt to Latoya Duncan during the dedication of her new house here in the Valley.
Fedette Johnson sang the Lord’s Prayer before the assembled group as blessing for Duncan and her family. The new homeowner, Latoya Duncan, then addressed her friends and neighbors. She began by thanking Habitat for Humanity for providing her family with a wonderful new home. She also spoke of how, on this day, “...all the hard work has paid off.” Finally, Goodman closed the dedication by encouraging everyone to tour the new house and enjoy the supplied refreshments.
 At the dedication, Habitat volunteers served refreshments, including cake.
Since 1996, working with volunteers in the community, Garland County Habitat for Humanity has built safe and affordable houses for people who otherwise might never get to own their home. Each new homeowner is required to invest “sweat equity” in their new home. Each homeowner must spend at least 100 hours working on their new house--with family and friends allowed to make up the balance of the 350 required hours of “sweat equity.”
This is the ninety-second home built by Garland County Habitat for Humanity; and their forty-second home in the Valley. Habitat sells each of its houses to its new owner; with the sale being financed by a twenty-year, zero percent mortgage. Garland County Habitat for Humanity expects that it will complete its 100th house sometime in 2012.
- Posted 8/21/11 by MT
FYI--Reminder to Drivers: Watch For School Children This week many area schools, including the Hot Springs School District, begin their fall term. This means drivers passing through the Valley need to watch for children walking to or from area bus stops and use extra caution.Many roads in Valley lack sidewalks, so drivers may find themselves sharing the roadway with pedestrians. Drivers need to slow down, be aware that children might be present and avoid distractions. The speed limit along Whittington Avenue is 25 MPH and the Hot Springs Police Department routine monitors for speeders. Likewise pedestrians need to proactive. Pedestrians should follow the traffic laws, avoid unexpected movements and take reasonable steps to remain visible to drivers.
- Posted 8/15/11 by MT
NEWS--WVNA Campaign Brings About Repaving of Valley Road Newly repaved Woodfin Avenue in the Whittington Valley.
The City of Hot Springs has resurfaced a road at the west end of Whittington Federal Park. This particular stretch of roadway, located between Sabie Street and Whittington Avenue, is very narrow and short--only about thirty feet long. However it is a vital link for many in the Whittington Valley, allowing residents quick and easy access to their homes on the north side of the Valley without having to take the long way around the Federal Park--a trip that can take drivers more than half a mile out of their way.
For years City crews repeatedly patched the road as needed. However, heavy fall rains and the harsh winter, combined with daily wear from vehicle traffic, left the roadway crumbling, dangerously uneven and deteriorating.
Back in October 2010, the Association wrote a letter to the City of Hot Springs requesting that the road be repaved. At that time the Association was told that because of the City's tight budget, it was not possible to repave the street. But as the road’s condition continued to deteriorate, the community’s concerns only increased.
In April, 2011, the Neighborhood Association redoubled their efforts to have the road repaved. The Association wrote letters to local elected officials and the editor of the Hot Springs' Sentinel-Record. As a result of our efforts, the paper published an article about the crumbling road in its April 19th, 2011 edition. The front page story included a color photo of the deteriorating road and quotes from several Valley residents about how the road was hazardous to drivers and pedestrians alike. At a subsequent meeting of the Hot Springs Board of Directors, members of the Neighborhood Association made a public presentation requesting that the road be added to the City's 2011 paving program. After the presentation, the City Directors agreed to add Woodfin to the paving program.  The photo above shows the uneven, pot-marked and crumbling roadway on Woodfin Avenue as of April 2011. The photo below shows the same roadway as of August 8, 2011, after a recently resurfacing by a City contractor.
 This past weekend contractors hired by the City regraded the roadbed and applied new asphalt to Woodfin. "It is always gratifying to see the Neighborhood Association's efforts bring about a positive improvement in the Valley," said Mark Toth, Association president. "The resulting new roadway is smooth and much safer for both drivers and pedestrians. We are grateful to everyone who made this possible and we extend our thanks to the City of Hot Springs and our elected officials for making this project a priority."
 Newly repaved Myrtle Street off Whittington Avenue.
In addition, the City contractor resurfaced a second road in the Whittington Valley (see photo above). More than a year ago City crews installed new larger capacity storm drains under Myrtle Street; repaving of the road was delayed until warmer weather arrived. Recently the roadbed was backfilled and leveled. The application of new asphalt completes repairs to the road. Myrtle Street provides quick and easy access to Linden Park, a popular public facility with large open soccer fields, basketball courts and playground equipment.
- Posted 8/8/11 by MT; Updated 8/9/11 by MT
NEWS--4th Extension of Heat Advisory; Now Continues Through August 9th, 2011 The National Weather Service in Little Rock has extended its Heat Advisory through Tuesday, August 9th, 2011. This is the fourth time the Heat Advisory has been extended and will the the 10th day in a row the area has been under a Heat Advisory. Last week, the area experienced record breaking heat as daytime temperatures rose will above 105 degrees Fahrenheit.For Monday, August 8th and Tuesday, August 9th, daytime temperatures are predicted to remain at or above 100 degrees. High temperatures combined with high humidity means heat indices will exceed 105 degrees. The Weather Service advises residents to use caution when outdoors during the afternoon and evening hours as heat stress illnesses are possible. Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air conditioned room, wear light and comfortable clothing and check up on friends and relatives. (See our tips for beating the heat by clicking here.)
In related news, the Hot Springs Concert Band, which had been scheduled to perform a free public concert in Whittington Federal Park Monday evening, August 8th, have selected an alternative venue for their concert, the gymnasium at National Park Community College. (See story here.)
Some forecast models predict more seasonal temperatures returning to the area in the middle of week with increasing chances of rain. Check back for updates. The full text of the latest Advisory from the National Weather Service appears below. URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE LITTLE ROCK AR 432 AM CDT MON AUG 8 2011 A Heat Advisory is now in effect until 8 pm cdt Tuesday.
* Event: Dangerously hot conditions will continue through Tuesday. High temperatures on Monday will range from the upper 90s to around 105 degrees and from the mid 90s to 102 degrees on Tuesday. Combining these readings with high humidity levels will create afternoon heat index values over 105 degrees.
* Timing: Heat indices of 105 to 110 will be possible in the afternoon and evening hours through Tuesday.
* Impact: Heat related illnesses become more likely with prolonged exposure to hot and humid conditions. Extra caution should be taken to minimize the effects of the heat.
Precautionary/preparedness actions: A Heat Advisory means that the combination of heat and humidity will create dangerous conditions outdoors. If you must be outside take frequent breaks in a shaded or air conditioned environment. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of non-alcoholic fluids. If possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Remember, heat is the number one weather related killer in the United States. Heat stroke is an emergency; call 911.
- Posted 8/8/11 by MT
NEWS--August 8th, 2011 Concert Band Concert Relocated To National Park Community College The Hot Springs Concert Band has announced a change in venue for their upcoming August 8th, 2011 concert. The Band's fifth performance in their "Summer Concert In the Park" series will held in the gymnasium at National Park Community College. Concerns about the ongoing Heat Advisory prompted the change in venues. The concert will begin at 6:15 pm.The theme for the Band's August 8th concert is "From Russia With Love (Music From Russia)." The concert is free and usually lasts about 90 minutes. Attendees are advised to bring their own chairs to sit on. Reminder: no food is allowed inside the gymnasium at the Community College. For more about the Concert Band, visit their website at www.hotspringsband.org.
- Posted 8/7/11 by MT
NEWS--Artchurch Announces August Concert Schedule The three Artchurch’s House Concerts for August are :
August 20: Andy Tanas (of “Black Oak Arkansas” fame) with Ben Robbins opening. Doors open at 6:00 pm and the show begins at 7:00 pm. Admission is $10.00. All ages welcome, no smoking. Andy is an amazing musician and its been almost four years since he has been in Hot Springs. August 21: Royal Forest (psychedelic rock band from Austin, TX). Doors open at 4:00 pm, with the show starting at 5:00 pm. Admission is $5.00. All ages welcome, no smoking. Royal Forest is one of the premier bands currently on the Austin music scene and they are touring to promote their new EP. August 27: Bizarro Buddha (a local eclectic trio). Doors open at 6:00 pm and the show starts at 7:00 pm. Admission is $5.00. All ages welcome, no smoking. Bizarro Buddha plays a wide variety of music, covering Rush, Yes, the White Stripes and others, as well as lots of original music. They will be releasing their new original 4-song mini-cd the night of the concert as well. - Posted 8/6/11 by MT
NEWS--Heat Advisory Extended Through Monday, August 8th, 2011 The National Weather Service in Little Rock has extended its Heat Advisory through Monday, August 8th, 2011. Daytime temperatures are predicted to remain at or above 100 degrees Fahrenheit through Monday. Hot temperatures combined with high humidity means heat indices will exceed 105 degrees and could be has high as 114 degrees.This is the fourth time the National Weather Service has extended this particular Heat Advisory. The past week saw record breaking heat as a high pressure system brought sweltering temperatures to the area. The Weather Service advises residents to use caution when outdoors during the afternoon and evening hours as heat stress illnesses are possible.
Current forecast models predict more seasonal temperatures returning near the middle of next week with increasing chances of rain. Check back for updates.
Please use common sense during this heat wave. Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air conditioned room, wear light and comfortable clothing and check up on friends and relatives. (See our tips for beating the heat by clicking here.)
The full text of the latest Advisory from the National Weather Service appears below. URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE LITTLE ROCK AR 340 AM CDT SAT AUG 6 2011 A Heat Advisory is now in effect until 9 pm cdt Monday.
* Event: Dangerously hot conditions will continue through early next week. Overnight lows will remain high, generally in the upper 70s to lower 80s. High temperatures will range from the upper 90s to around 107 degrees with afternoon heat index values climbing above 105 degrees each day.
* Timing: Heat indices of 105 to 114 will be possible in the afternoon and evening hours through Monday evening.
* Impact: Heat related illnesses become more likely with prolonged exposure to hot and humid conditions. Extra caution should be taken to minimize the affects of the high heat.
Precautionary/preparedness actions: A Heat Advisory means that a period of hot temperatures is expected. The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will combine to create a situation in which heat illnesses are possible.
Each year a number of fatalities occur nationwide due to children accidentally being left in vehicles during the summer months. In the past dozen years, 450 children have died due to hyperthermia after being left in or gaining access to cars. Never leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle not even for a minute. Remember, beat the heat check the backseat.
Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water. To reduce risk during outdoor work the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency; call 911.
- Posted 8/6/11 by MT
NEWS--Heat Advisory Extended Through Sunday, August 7th, 2011 The National Weather Service has extended its Heat Advisory for the area through Sunday, August 8th, 2011. With afternoon temperatures predicted to peak near or above 100 degrees Fahrenheit through Monday, the Weather Service advises residents to use caution when outdoors as heat stress illnesses are possible. High humidity levels means afternoon heat indices will be over 105 degrees.Earlier in the week, Hot Springs experienced record breaking high temperatures--as much as 12 degrees above normal. City officials, working with local charitable institutions, opened cooling centers for those seeking a place to cool off during the heat of the day. While forecast models show temperatures at or above 100 degrees through Monday, these same models predict more seasonal temperatures returning near the middle of next week.
Please use common sense during this heat wave. Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air conditioned room, wear light and comfortable clothing and check up on friends and relatives. (See our tips for beating the heat by clicking here.)
Highs Monday are expected to be near 100 degrees. Consequently there is a possiblity that the Heat Advisory may be extended again. Please check back for updates. The full text of the latest Advisory from the National Weather Service appears below.
URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE LITTLE ROCK AR 341 AM CDT FRI AUG 5 2011 Dangerously hot conditions will continue through Sunday. A heat advisory remains in effect until 9 pm cdt Sunday.
* Event: Dangerously hot conditions will continue into the weekend. Overnight lows will remain high, generally in the upper 70s to low 80s. Highs will be around or slightly above 100 degrees with heat index values above 105 degrees during the peak heating of the afternoon each day.
* Timing: Heat indices of 105 to 114 will be possible in the afternoon and evening hours through Sunday evening.
* Impact: Heat related illnesses become more likely with prolonged exposure to hot and humid conditions. Extra caution should be taken to minimize the affects of the high heat.
Precautionary/preparedness actions: A Heat Advisory means that a period of hot temperatures is expected. The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will combine to create a situation in which heat illnesses are possible.
Each year a number of fatalities occur nationwide due to children accidentally being left in vehicles during the summer months. In the past dozen years, 450 children have died due to hyperthermia after being left in or gaining access to cars. Never leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle not even for a minute. Remember, beat the heat, check the backseat.
Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water.
To reduce risk during outdoor work the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency; call 911.
- Posted 8/5/11 by MT
FYI--Historic District Designation Update; Proposed Name of DistrictBeginning in December 2009, the Neighborhood Association began working to have a portion of the Whittington Valley designated a "National Historical Register District." The Neighborhood Association’s Board of Directors, working with city and state officials, have recently made significant progress in obtaining this designation.Obtaining Historic District designation can be seen as a two step process. First an assessment (or survey) must be completed to determine if the proposed district qualifies for “Historic” designation. Secondly, a formal nomination must be submitted to state and federal agencies for review and acceptance. The good news is that we have almost completed the first step of the process--i.e. the historical survey to determine eligibility as a Historic District. In addition, a grant has been secured to fund preparation of the nomination paperwork--i.e. the second step in obtaining Historic District designation.
In May and June 2011, Beth Valenzuela, a cultural resource expert specializing in historical architecture, conducted a field survey of the homes and commercial buildings around Whittington Federal Park with an eye to determining whether the area would qualify as a Historic District. Documenting the design and construction of approximately 75 structures, Ms. Valenzuela produced a draft report that concluded that the proposed district “retains significant historical associations, and its built environment exhibits strong elements of architectural significance; therefore the Whittington Avenue Historic District is recommended Eligible for listing in the National Register. ”
At the July 18th, 2011 meeting of the Whittington Valley Neighborhood Association, the members reviewed the Historical Survey completed by Ms. Valenzuela. The members unanimously backed a proposal to formally request that the name of the district be either “Whittington Valley Historic District” or “Whittington Park Historic District.” The members felt that a designation as the “Whittington Avenue Historic District” could be misleading since the proposed district’s boundaries include streets and roads other than Whittington Avenue.
At their July meeting, the Hot Springs Historic Commission solicited public comments on the draft Historic Survey. Representatives of the Neighborhood Association were in attendance and voiced gratitude for all of Ms. Valenzuela’s hard work in completing the survey. Mark Toth, president of the Neighborhood Association, also voiced the members’ preferences for naming the district. The commissioners voiced tentative support for the “Whittington Park” designation, as that label referred to a significant historical element in the proposed district, i.e. Whittington Federal Park which has been a fixture in the valley for more than 110 years.
Rick Stauder, Hot Spring’s Planning Coordinator, acting at the behest of the Historic Commission and the Neighborhood Association, send a query to staff at the Arkansas Historic Preservation Program (AHPP) asking about the proposed name for the district. The staff at the AHPP sent a reply saying that the name for the district had not been finalized and that “Whittington Park Historic District” would probably be best since the park has been long-standing and significant element in the proposed district.
 At the behest of the Neighborhood Association, there is a strong possibility the proposed historic district in the Valley will be named after Whittington Park.
So where does this process go from here? On August 18th, the Hot Spring’s Historic Commission will formally accept the Historic Survey for the proposed district and forward the survey onto the Arkansas Historic Preservation Program. At about the same time, Rick Stauder, Hot Spring’s Planning Coordinator, will put together a bid packet for outside consultants interested in completing the nomination paperwork for the proposed Historic District. After reviewing the bids, the City Directors will select consultant and the nomination process will then begin in earnest. With luck, the nomination process should be in full swing by the end of the year.
- Posted 8/3/11 by MT
Note: To read our previous update about obtaining historic district designation, click here.
NEWS--Excessive Heat Warning; Advisory Thru Saturday, August 6th; Cooling Centers OpenExcessive Heat Warning: With the temperature predicted to reach 111 degrees Fahrenheit on Wednesday, August 3rd, 2011, the National Weather service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning. The Weather Service states that "...a prolonged period of dangerously hot temperatures will occur. The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will combine to create a dangerous situation in which heat illnesses are likely. Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun and check up on relatives and neighbors."Heat Advisory Extended: In addition, with temperatures expected to remain above 100 degrees through the weekend, the National Weather Service has extended its Heat Advisory through Saturday, August 6th. The Weather Service warns residents to use caution during the afternoon and early evening hours to avoid heat stress illnesses. (See our tips for beating the heat by clicking here.)
Cooling Centers: The City of Hot Springs, working in cooperation with local churches, announced that cooling centers will be open from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm for those seeking relief from the heat. The location of the scheduled cooling centers is as follows:
Wednesday, August 3
Central Fire Station, 310 Broadway Street.
Thursday, August 4
Hot Springs Baptist Church, 144 Weston Road.
Friday, August 5
First Church of the Nazarene, 3804 Central Avenue.
Please be safe and use common sense during this heat wave. Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air conditioned room and check up on friends and relatives.
The full text of the latest Advisory from the National Weather Service appears below.
URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE LITTLE ROCK AR 252 PM CDT WED AUG 3 2011 Dangerously hot conditions will continue through Saturday.
Upper level high pressure will persist through the rest of the week. High temperatures will continue to exceed 100 degrees over much of the area with several locations over 110 degrees this afternoon. Heat indices will continue to exceed 115 degrees in portions of the area this afternoon and likely exceed 115 degrees in southeastern Arkansas Thursday afternoon. Later this week slightly cooler temperatures will be seen but with temperatures expected to still remain above 100 degrees at many spots. Heat indices will also remain above 105 degrees during the afternoon hours at many locations.
An Excessive Heat Warning remains in effect until 7 pm cdt this evening.
A Heat Advisory remains in effect from 7 pm this evening to 9 pm cdt Saturday.
* Event: Dangerously hot conditions will continue into the weekend. Overnight low temperatures will also remain high with temperatures only dropping into the upper 70s to low 80s. This afternoon heat index values continue to exceed 115 degrees in many locations. Heat index values will drop some later this week but remain above 105 degrees during the peak heating of the afternoon each day.
* Timing: The highest heat index values are occurring this afternoon with many locations seeing heat indices above 115 degrees. Heat indices of 105 to 114 will be possible late this evening through at least Saturday evening.
* Impact: Heat related illnesses become more likely with prolonged exposure to hot and humid conditions. Extra caution should be taken to minimize the affects of the high heat.
Precautionary/preparedness actions: An excessive heat warning means that a prolonged period of dangerously hot temperatures will occur. The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will combine to create a dangerous situation in which heat illnesses are likely. Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun and check up on relatives and neighbors.
Each year a number of fatalities occur nationwide due to children accidentally being left in vehicles during the summer months. In the past dozen years 450 children have died due to hyperthermia after being left in or gaining access to cars. Never leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle not even for a minute. Remember beat the heat, check the backseat.
Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water. To reduce risk during outdoor work the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency--call 911.
- Posted 8/3/11 by MT
NEWS--Heat Advisory Extended To Friday, August 5th, 2011; Excessive Heat Watch In Effect The National Weather Service in Little Rock has issued two new heat related weather warnings this morning.First, the Weather Service has extended its Heat Advisory through Friday, August 5th. Afternoon temperatures are expected to be near or over 100 degrees Fahrenheit all this week; combined with high relative humidity, outside conditions between noon and 7:00 pm every day this week will be dangerously hot. Heat related illnesses are possible. Heat indices will be above 105 and may exceed 115 in some areas. Residents are encouraged to remain in an air conditioned room if possible and to remain hydrated by drinking plenty of non-alcoholic fluids. (Related: see our tips for beating the heat by clicking here.)
In addition, the National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Watch for Wednesday, August 3rd and Thursday , August 4th. Forecast models predict a high temperature on Wednesday of 106 degrees; and 104 degrees as a high on Thursday. Heat indices are expected to be above 115 degrees on both days. The Weather Service warns residents to use caution on both days during the afternoon and early evening hours.
The full text of the latest Advisory from the National Weather Service appears below. URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE LITTLE ROCK AR 202 AM CDT TUE AUG 2 2011 Oppressive heat to persist through the week.
Upper level high pressure will build over the region and will persist through the week. High temperatures will exceed 100 degrees over the area with heat indices between 105 and 115 degrees. Heat indices could exceed 115 degrees in portions of the area on Wednesday and Thursday.
Heat Advisory now in effect until 7 pm cdt Friday.
Excessive Heat Watch in effect from Wednesday afternoon through Thursday evening.
The National Weather Service in Little Rock has issued an Excessive Heat Watch which is in effect from Wednesday afternoon through Thursday evening. The Heat Advisory is now in effect until 7 pm cdt Friday.
* Event: Dangerously hot conditions are expected to continue. Afternoon heat index values of 105 to 115 will be common. Above normal low temperatures will persist. On Wednesday and Thursday heat index values could exceed 115 degrees during the afternoon and early evening.
* Timing: The dangerous heat stress conditions will continue through the week with the highest heat index values occurring on Wednesday and Thursday.
* Impact: Heat related illnesses become more likely with prolonged exposure to hot and humid conditions. Extra caution should be taken to minimize the affects of the high heat.
Precautionary/preparedness actions: A Heat Advisory means that the combination of heat and humidity will create dangerous conditions outdoors. If you must be outside take frequent breaks in a shaded or air conditioned environment. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of non-alcoholic fluids. If possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Remember heat is the number one weather related killer in the United States. Heat stroke is an emergency; call 911.
An excessive heat watch means that a prolonged period of hot temperatures is expected. The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will combine to create a dangerous situation in which heat illnesses are possible. Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun and check up on relatives and neighbors.
- Posted 8/2/11 by MT
NEWS--Heat Advisory Issued Through Wednesday, August 3rd, 2011As has become all too common this summer, the National Weather Service has issued another Heat Advisory--this Advisory currently runs through Wednesday, August 3rd, 2011. With afternoon temperatures forecast to be near or over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, combined with high relative humidity, outdoor conditions are expected to be extremely dangerous and heat stress illnesses could result. Residents are advised to avoid strenuous outdoor activities between 1:00 pm and 9:00 pm, as heat indices are expected to be between 105 and 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Residents are also encouraged to remain hydrated by drinking plenty of non-alcoholic fluids. (Related: see our tips for beating the heat by clicking here.)It is likely this Heat Advisory will be extended as forecast models show high temperatures continuing for the next week. Check back for updates.
The full text of the latest Advisory from the National Weather Service appears below.
URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE LITTLE ROCK AR 302 AM CDT MON AUG 1 2011 Oppressive heat to persist through the week.
Most of the area will see heat indices above 105 degrees through the week as a very strong ridge of high pressure becomes parked over the region. Some locations could even see heat indices of over 110, maybe as high as 115 in some spots.
A heat advisory remains in effect until 9 pm cdt Wednesday.
* Event: Dangerously hot conditions are expected as afternoon high temperatures rise into the upper 90s to around 105. With relative humidity values expected to remain high as well, heat index values are expected to rise above 105 degrees in the coming days. There could be some locations that see heat index values rise over 110 degrees.
* Timing: Heat index values of 105 to 110 degrees will be likely in the advisory area during the afternoon and early evening hours.
* Impact: Heat related illnesses become more likely with prolonged exposure to hot and humid conditions. Extra caution should be taken to minimize the affects of the high heat.
Precautionary/preparedness actions: A Heat Advisory means that the combination of heat and humidity will create dangerous conditions outdoors. If you must be outside take frequent breaks in a shaded or air conditioned environment. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of non-alcoholic fluids. If possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Remember, heat is the number one weather related killer in the United States. Heat stroke is an emergency; call 911.
- Posted 7/31/11 by MT; Updated 8/1/11
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