Triple Digit Temperatures And Flash Drought Threats Face The Arklatex
Though there have been no warnings or official advisories listed at this point, the National Weather Service in Shreveport says we are in for more blistering August heat this week across the Arklatex.
Taking to their Facebook page earlier this morning. weather forecasters indicate that by Wednesday of this week, temperatures will climb into the upper nineties to possibly in the triple digits, with heat index values as high as 109 by Thursday and Friday.
NWSS also states that the extreme heat and lack of rainfall will increase flash drought risks across the area. Drink plenty of fluids, stay out of the sun, check on neighbors and always look before you lock!
What Is A Flash Drought Risk?
According to drought.gov, "Flash drought is simply the rapid onset or intensification of drought. It is set in motion by lower-than-normal rates of precipitation, accompanied by abnormally high temperatures, winds, and radiation. Together, these changes in weather can rapidly alter the local climate."
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"Unlike slow-evolving drought, which is caused by a decline in precipitation, flash drought occurs when low precipitation is accompanied by abnormally high temperatures (e.g., heat waves), high winds, and/or changes in radiation. These sometime-rapid changes can quickly raise evapotranspiration rates and remove available water from the landscape."
"If not predicted and discovered early enough, changes in soil moisture that accompany flash drought can cause extensive damage to agriculture, economies, and ecosystem goods and services."
Steps To Take When Flash Drought Is Forecast
Resources, including drought.gov, state the following steps should be taken when flash drought is forecast for an area:
- Protect Lawns, Gardens, and Agriculture - Water early or late in the day to limit evaporation.
- Reduce lawn watering frequency and follow local rules.
- Add mulch around plants to lock in soil moisture.
- Delay new planting until conditions improve.
- Prepare for Heat and Fire RisksWatch for burn bans because dry vegetation catches fire easily.
- Stay hydrated during concurrent heat waves.
- Check local updates through the National Weather Service or Drought.gov for changing risk levels