Many finding ways to beat the Arkansas heat on Fourth of July week

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Heat indexes in Arkansas are pushing well past 100 degrees during the week of the Fourth of July.

As some are getting under the shade or taking a splash to try to escape the heat, Annabella Frazier is from Alaska and said her family is spending their time at the splash pad to stay cool.

“We’re used to it being like 70 or 80 in the summer and like 40 below in the winter so this heat is kind of killing me.” Frazier said. “So that’s why I went to the splash pad.”

She’s not the only one who has to take a break from the heat. Jenipher Denecola said she recently moved to Arkansas from Mississippi and can already tell the difference in weather.

“It’s probably about 15 degrees hotter and a lot more humid than where I was,” Denecola said. “I would say it’s almost sticky when you’re in the sun and when you’re in the shade it’s not that bad.”

Across the bridge in North Little Rock, Magnolia Skillet co-owner Jennifer Rodgers said when they came into the building there were issues with making the air work and since then they have been without it.

“It’s very uncomfortable,” Rodgers said. “We’re making the best of it though.”

She said they’re trying to stay hydrated and doing their best to keep everyone cool.

“A lot of fans, cold towels, that’s really about it,” Rodgers said. “And a prayer.”

Despite the heat wave, everyone is still smiling whether they’re in the kitchen or outside, though they suggest hydrating as much as possible.

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