Garland County, along with much of the state, is under an excessive heat warning today from noon until 8 p.m. The cooling shelter at the newly established Community Resource Center, located at 109 Hobson Ave., will remain open daily through Sunday.
The National Weather Service has warned of “dangerously hot conditions,” with heat index values potentially reaching up to 112 degrees. Today’s temperature is predicted to hit 100 degrees, with upper 90s forecasted for Saturday and Sunday. Hot Springs Memorial Field recorded a temperature of 100.9 degrees and a heat index of 107 just before 3 p.m. on Thursday.
Sally Carder, one of the organizers of the cooling shelter, mentioned that the shelter will continue to operate through Sunday due to expected temperatures around 97 degrees. It will be open daily from noon to 6 p.m., providing a cool space for individuals in Garland County.
“We have several families here who struggle to afford electricity or air conditioning,” she explained. “This place has been a lifesaver for them. During the school break, many of them come here until it cools down a bit in the evening. They eat with us and wait until it’s more comfortable to head home.”
Volunteers can sign up to assist at the shelter by visiting the provided link, which is also available on the websites of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church and Cooperative Christian Ministries and Clinic.
“It has worked really well with churches helping recruit volunteers,” Carder noted. “Many new churches and supporters have joined us, and local community members are keen to see how everything is turning out. We sometimes experience a shortage of volunteers, but when we call for help, the Hot Springs community always responds generously.”
Carder highlighted the shelter’s need for sports drinks, T-shirts in all sizes, and men’s boxers. Donations of Walmart gift cards are also welcomed to enable volunteers to purchase necessary items.
“The need for Gatorade is significant,” she added. “Though we provide other drinks, given the extreme heat, Gatorade is essential for replenishing electrolytes.”
Carder expressed gratitude for the city’s support.
“I can’t praise the city enough for their assistance, especially with the building and other essentials,” she said. “They help with trash disposal and more, and the city police stop by every hour or two, providing the officers a chance to engage with our guests in a friendly manner. It fosters good relations and the attendees enjoy their visits.”