6 days ago
Dangerous Temperatures in One State Compared to Hottest Place on Earth
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
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Temperatures in parts of one state in the southern U.S. are only a few degrees lower than Furnace Creek in Death Valley, California, which is commonly referred to as the hottest place on Earth.
The hot weather prompted National Weather Service (NWS) meteorologists in the area to issue an extreme heat warning alerting people of the dangerous, and at times life-threatening, impact of heat.
Why It Matters
Extreme heat is the deadliest weather hazard in the U.S. It significantly increases the risk of heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke, particularly for vulnerable populations, including older adults, young children and people with chronic medical conditions.
High temperatures can also worsen air quality by increasing ground-level ozone, amplifying health risks for those with respiratory conditions.
Death Valley National Park in California.
Death Valley National Park in California.
Dmitry Vinogradov/Getty
What To Know
The Extreme Heat Warning, in effect for the NWS Little Rock, Arkansas, forecast area, included cities such as Hot Springs, Benton, Ash Flat and Batesville, among others. It will remain in place through Friday evening.
Newsweek reached out to the NWS Little Rock office by phone for comment.
At about 1 p.m. ET Friday, the temperature in Hot Springs, Arkansas, was measured at 92 degrees Fahrenheit, only 8 degrees below temperatures in Furnace Creek, California, at the same time.
Despite the nearness in temperature around midday, Furnace Creek is expected to remain hotter than Hot Springs on Friday. AccuWeather forecasts a high of 110 degrees in Furnace Creek, while Hot Springs' high is forecast at 95.
With the humidity, the heat index, or the feels-like temperature, in central Arkansas could hit as high as 110 on Friday, the extreme heat warning said.
The NWS HeatRisk map shows that major heat-related impact is expected across Arkansas through next Thursday. Beginning on Tuesday, an extreme risk of heat-related impacts will also be present in some areas.
"This level of rare and/or long-duration extreme heat with little to no overnight relief affects anyone without effective cooling and/or adequate hydration," NWS HeatRisk said. "Impacts likely in most health systems, heat-sensitive industries and infrastructure."
In addition to the extreme heat warnings, heat advisories were in place on Friday across large swaths of the U.S.
What People Are Saying
NWS Little Rock, in an extreme heat warning: "Take extra precautions when outside. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing. Try to limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke."
NWS Little Rock, on X on Friday: "Another hot and humid day is on deck, with much of the state under a heat headline. If you have outdoor plans, be sure to incorporate heat precautions, take frequent breaks, and stay well hydrated!"
What Happens Next
The extreme heat warning was set to remain in effect through 8 p.m. local time on Friday, according to the NWS. Forecasters indicated that the pattern of intense heat could persist into the weekend and beyond, with high temperatures remaining in the 90s or higher and continued elevated heat indices expected across Arkansas.
Residents were urged to monitor updates from the NWS and local authorities, take safety precautions seriously and check on neighbors, especially those who might lack adequate cooling resources.
