By: Joshua Wisel
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (UATV)—Oppressive heat and humidity look to continue into early this weekend, as highs are forecasted to continue in the upper 90s through Saturday. A slight decrease in humidity is forecasted for Friday before returning Saturday as a frontal system enters the region later. This upcoming frontal system looks to bring a much-welcomed decrease in temperatures, as well as rain chances Saturday through Monday. 
Before we get into our next chances for rain, we must get through the next 48 hours with these high temperatures. Students should remember to stay hydrated, take breaks indoors frequently, and never leave kids or pets alone in an unattended vehicle. Additionally, protect your pets’ feet from this extreme heat. If you must walk your dog or pet, be sure to do so earlier in the morning or later in the evening to avoid peak heat, the surface and its temperature can severely injure pets’ paws.
The rain chances with our upcoming system look to be mainly late Saturday through Monday, with daily coverage forecasted now around 30%. Some of the strongest storms may be capable of hail and gusty winds, however, the overall severe weather risk as of now appears to be low.
Beyond the next 4-day period, forecast models continue to agree that early next week we will see a taste of fall temperature-wise, with highs Monday through Wednesday being in the mid to low 80s, with lows in the 60s to possibly 50s.