The Texarkana area is bracing for a prolonged heat wave, with temperatures expected to reach 100 degrees through at least the middle of next week. The heat index on some days could make it feel as high as 109.
Flash Droughts a Concern
Matt Hemingway, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Shreveport, warned of the onset of flash droughts due to the extreme temperatures and lack of rain. A flash drought is the fast drying of the land that intensifies quickly, and extremely dry ground can amplify heat.
The last appreciable rainfall in the area was over 2 inches on August 7-8, which Hemingway described as a ‘one-off.’ The dry conditions have led to burn bans in Miller, Hempstead, and Lafayette counties in Arkansas, with no ban issued for Little River County, Arkansas, or Bowie and Cass counties in Texas.
Hemingway also cautioned about the risk of wildfires, which can be sparked in dry grass by a tossed cigarette or sparks from a towing chain. The National Weather Service recommends staying indoors in an air-conditioned environment, remaining hydrated, checking on vulnerable individuals, and dressing in light-colored clothing when venturing outdoors.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
