Heat advisory issued through Sunday

— A heat advisory begins today and runs through Sunday for much of central and southern Arkansas as near triple-digit temperatures settle into the region.

Heat indexes are expected to range up to 110 degrees each day for the advisory area, which includes 36 counties across the state. Three additional counties in northwest Arkansas are under an excessive heat warning for similar forecast conditions.

Officials with the National Weather Service say high pressure is expected to strengthen through the weekend, decreasing rain chances and allowing hot and humid temperatures to stall in the area.

"Excessive heat and humidity can bring on heat-related illnesses quickly," the weather service said in a statement Friday morning. "Individuals are encouraged to use extra caution when outdoors and be prepared for the dangers posed by excessive heat."

Such precautions include avoiding working outside during the mid-to-late afternoon, drinking plenty of water and wearing light-colored clothing, the weather service said.

In Little Rock, the high temperature each through Monday is expected to reach triple digits.

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