Travelers Beware: The Humidity in Arkansas Will Be Extreme This Summer

Are you thinking about visiting Arkansas this summer? You should! Arkansas is an incredible state all around, and it's a fantastic place to spend your summer vacation. The Natural State is full of friendly folks, and there's so much there to see and do.

If you're hesitant about visiting Arkansas in the summer, that's probably because you know that summer weather in Arkansas can be quite hot and humid. There's no doubt about it; heat and humidity are a part of daily life in Arkansas in the summertime. And this summer? The fact of the matter is, the humidity in Arkansas this year is going to be extreme - that is, over 80% relative humidity in many places, much of the time.

Don't let that deter you, though! As long as you're prepared for hot and humid days, then you have nothing to fear. Read on to learn more about summer weather in Arkansas and how to get ready for it. Then, you can move forward with your Arkansas vacation plans from there. When you visit Arkansas, you're sure to have a vacation that you'll never forget.

What Gets Extreme in Arkansas During Summer?

Arkansas can get very hot and very humid in the summertime. Why does this intense humidity happen in this part of the United States in particular? Well, Arkansas is exceptionally humid for several reasons, but the primary one is due to its proximity to the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The winds from the Gulf blow northward, across Mississippi and into Arkansas. From there, moisture becomes trapped by the geographical features of the state, like the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains and the Arkansas River Valley. Then it gets stuck, and it just hangs, and everyone sweats a whole lot until autumn eventually arrives.

The humidity can be quite intense in Arkansas, whether you are used to it or not. However, if you know how to prepare for it and manage your exposure to it, it doesn't have to ruin your vacation.

What Travelers Should Expect

Arkansas consistently ranks among the nation's most humid states. In fact, the average summer humidity in the Natural State frequently stays above 70 percent, and often hits the extreme level of 80 percent relative humidity. This can result in frequent "feels like" temperatures of over 100 degrees, especially in the eastern and central parts of the state. Although there may be periods of cooler weather even in the middle of the summer, the hot temperatures and high humidity levels return again and again.

For people who are not prepared for this type of weather, these extreme conditions can be dangerous. Humidity can cripple our natural cooling mechanism. When it's hot, the human body sweats to cool down, but this body function is only effective if our sweat can evaporate into the surrounding air. When the weather is very humid, sweat stays on our skin, keeping us hot. This can lead to heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heatstroke and can make breathing difficult for people with asthma or COPD.

How to Prepare for It

Luckily, it's possible to prepare for high humidity to keep yourself comfortable and safe. Monitor humidity levels with an inexpensive hydrometer or by checking conditions on weather websites like NOAA or the National Weather Service. Choose lightweight, light-colored, moisture-wicking clothing to help your sweat evaporate, and wear a wide-brimmed hat when you're out in the sun. When participating in outdoor activities, drink lots of water and take frequent rest breaks in the shade. Plan outdoor sightseeing for the early morning or late evening hours to avoid periods of especially high humidity.

Is Arkansas Still Worth Visiting in the Summer?

Of course, Arkansas is still worth visiting in the summertime, even despite the high humidity levels. This state is beautiful, and there is so much to see and do in Arkansas during the summer months. As long as you take it easy, pay attention to your body, and take wise steps to care for yourself in extreme humidity, you can still have a wonderful visit to Arkansas this summer or anytime.

Don't let the humidity deter you. Arkansas is calling your name. Plan a visit today, and have a great trip!