Spring break kicks off this weekend with a heatwave as temperature records are expected to be broken across the state with wildfire dangers increasing.
In Mountain Home the average high for March 21 is 61 degrees with low of 38. Saturday’s forecast calls for a high of 95 degrees under sunny skies. The previous record for this day was set in 2017 when the high was recorded at 90 at KTLO, Classic Hits and The Boot the official reporting station for Mountain Home to the National Weather Service.
A graphic from the NWS shows multiple cities across the state are expected to break records as a high pressure system from the west settles over the area. Little Rock is expected to reach 89 degrees breaking its old record from 2017 and Russellville may break it old record of 86 degrees set in 1966 by exceeding it by 7 degrees with a high forecasted at 93.
The heat continues Sunday with Mountain Home expected again to reach 95 degrees and break the previous held record from 1997. By Sunday evening strong winds will bring a change to the weather pattern with relief expected Monday and highs returning to near average at 67 degrees.
The NWS also stated Saturday that the wildfire danger will increase Sunday as winds increase ahead of the cold front. The wildfire danger remains at a moderate level according to the Arkansas Forestry Division Saturday morning.
With Saturday being only the second day of spring residents planning on spending extended time outdoors should use caution and remember to apply sunscreen, stay hydrated and take breaks as the heat continues through the weekend.
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