Continuing a week of blistering heat, the National Weather Service issued an excessive heat warning until 9 p.m. Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service, an excessive heat warning has been issued until 9 p.m. Saturday for Union County, as hot temperatures from upper 90s to around 104 degrees and high humidity are expected to result in maximum heat index values of at least 110 degrees.
The weather service advised that the excessive heat warning would likely be extended through Sunday as temperatures of more than 100 degrees with heat index values at or above 110 degrees are expected to continue through the weekend.
An excessive heat warning indicates dangerously hot temperatures, according to the weather service.
To avoid a heat-related illness, the weather service advises residents to recognize signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. According to the Mayo Clinic, such signs include heavy sweating, faintness, dizziness, fatigue, muscle cramps, low blood pressure when standing, nausea, vomiting, headache and a weak, rapid pulse or rapid shallow breathing.
People are advised to wear light-weight and loose-fitting clothing and to drink plenty of water. If possible, stay in air-conditioned rooms and check up on relatives and neighbors. It is also advised to ensure pets have access to fresh, cool water.
The weather service also noted that young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles as the "interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes."
With the high temperatures, a cooling shelter has been made available for the elderly in Union County at the Champagnolle Landing Wellness Center for Seniors at 910 Champagnolle Road, El Dorado. The shelter will be open from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. Monday-Friday.
For more information on the cooling shelter, call the senior center at 870-862-2230.
UAMS South Arkansas Center on Aging Education Center and El Dorado Connections also have teamed up to collect bottled water and fans for seniors in the area. Donations of bottled water and new or gently used fans are accepted through Aug. 31 at 106 W. Main, suite 310 (above PJ’s Coffee) and 824 Camp St. For more information, call 870-881-8969. Pick up and delivery is available.