ARK-LA-TEX REGION — A scorching heat wave is blanketing eastern Texas, southern Arkansas, and northern Louisiana, pushing “feels-like” temperatures to 108°F and prompting a heat advisory through 7 p.m. Thursday, according to the National Weather Service in Shreveport.
Cities including Texarkana, Lufkin, Shreveport, Monroe, and Longview are expected to experience the most intense heat during the late afternoon hours.
Heat Advisory Areas and Health Risks
The advisory includes the following counties:
- Caddo, Bossier, Ouachita (LA)
- Bowie, Cass (TX)
- Union (AR)
Local officials are urging residents to:
- Avoid prolonged outdoor exposure
- Stay well-hydrated
- Use shaded or air-conditioned spaces
- Wear light, breathable clothing
Those at highest risk include:
- Elderly individuals
- Young children
- Outdoor workers
- Anyone without access to air conditioning
Emergency rooms are preparing for a possible uptick in heat-related illnesses, and symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke should be taken seriously.
“This level of heat can be life-threatening,” warned local emergency management officials. “Know the signs—confusion, fainting, or lack of sweating—and call 911 immediately if they appear.”
Regional Impacts: Roads, Schools, and Power
The heat wave is also expected to impact:
- School schedules, with some districts adjusting recess and outdoor activity times
- Business operations, especially those that rely on outdoor labor
- Travel on highways like I-20 and US-71, where vehicle overheating may cause delays
Utility companies across the region are preparing for high electricity demand, and residents are encouraged to conserve energy where possible.
Ongoing Risk Into the Weekend
While Thursday’s advisory is set to expire at 7 p.m., forecasters warn that the heat may linger, and additional advisories could follow if high temperatures continue into Friday and the weekend.
How are you preparing for the extreme heat? Share your tips or heat safety stories at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
