EL DORADO — South Arkansas residents should prepare for another hot and humid day, with heat index values expected to approach triple digits across the region this afternoon.

According to the National Weather Service in Shreveport, heat indices are forecast to range from 100 to 104 degrees across much of the Four State Region. In El Dorado, the heat index is expected to reach around 100 degrees, while nearby communities could experience similar conditions through the afternoon hours.

Although no Heat Advisories have been issued at this time, forecasters say the combination of high temperatures and humidity will create a moderate to major heat risk across much of South Arkansas and the surrounding region.

The National Weather Service notes that conditions will be dangerously close to Heat Advisory criteria in some locations. Prolonged exposure to the heat, especially during the afternoon, can increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, particularly for older adults, young children, outdoor workers, and those without access to air conditioning.

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Forecasters are also monitoring conditions for Thursday, when heat index values and overall heat risk could increase even further.

Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day, wear lightweight clothing, and check on vulnerable family members, neighbors, and pets.

Communities across South Arkansas, including El Dorado, Smackover, Camden, Magnolia, and surrounding areas, are expected to remain under above-normal temperatures through the remainder of the week as summer-like conditions continue to settle across the region.

While today may fall just short of advisory levels, meteorologists say heat safety precautions remain important as temperatures continue to climb.

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EL DORADO — As South Arkansas continues to position itself as a growing hub for lithium production and processing, local residents will have an opportunity to learn how they can become part of the industry’s future workforce during an upcoming community workshop in El Dorado.

The LithiumWorks Workforce Workshop will be held Tuesday, June 16, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the El Dorado-Union County Chamber of Commerce, located at 111 W. Main Street. The free event is designed to educate community members about the expanding lithium sector and the career opportunities expected to accompany its growth across the region.

Organizers say the workshop will provide valuable information for individuals interested in exploring careers in the industry, whether they are entering the workforce, considering a career change, or simply wanting to learn more about the economic developments taking place in South Arkansas.

Participants will receive an overview of the emerging lithium industry and its potential impact on local communities. The session will also highlight the types of careers available within the sector, current and future employment opportunities, workforce training programs, and resources designed to help residents prepare for industry jobs.

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Workshop attendees will learn about the skills and qualifications employers are seeking, as well as pathways into the industry for individuals with a variety of educational and professional backgrounds. Organizers emphasize that no degree or previous industry experience is required to attend the workshop.

The event comes as lithium development projects continue to advance throughout South Arkansas, drawing national attention to the region’s vast lithium resources. Industry leaders and economic development officials have repeatedly emphasized the importance of workforce readiness as companies move closer to large-scale operations.

By providing information about training opportunities and career pathways, organizers hope to ensure local residents are prepared to benefit from the jobs and economic growth expected to accompany the industry’s expansion.

The workshop is free and open to the public.

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For more information, contact the El Dorado-Union County Chamber of Commerce at 870-863-6113.

EL DORADO — Community members will have an opportunity to support local youth programs while enjoying a meal later this month as Chick-fil-A El Dorado partners with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Union County-Arkansas for a special fundraising event.

The Community Cares Event is scheduled for Monday, June 22, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Chick-fil-A El Dorado. During the event, a portion of qualifying sales placed through the Chick-fil-A mobile app will be donated to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Union County-Arkansas.

To participate, customers are encouraged to use the Chick-fil-A mobile app and opt into the Community Cares event when placing their orders. Eligible purchases include dine-in, drive-thru and carryout orders made during the designated event hours.

The fundraiser is designed to help support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Union County-Arkansas, which provides after-school programs, educational support, mentoring opportunities and recreational activities for local youth.

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Organizers say community participation can make a meaningful impact, with every qualifying purchase helping generate funding for programs and services that benefit children and families throughout Union County.

The event offers residents a simple way to give back to the community while supporting a local organization dedicated to helping young people reach their full potential.

For additional information about the fundraiser or how to participate through the Chick-fil-A mobile app, contact the Boys & Girls Clubs of Union County-Arkansas or Chick-fil-A El Dorado.

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CAMDEN — The City of Camden is inviting residents and visitors to gather for an evening of worship, fellowship, and community celebration during its upcoming Worship in the Park event on Sunday, June 21.

The event will take place from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Carnes Park and is part of Camden’s Juneteenth weekend festivities. Organizers say the family-friendly event will offer opportunities for community members to come together in a spirit of unity while enjoying live worship and fellowship activities.

In addition to the worship service, attendees can enjoy a variety of food trucks, inflatables for children, and the chance to meet local candidates. The event is designed to provide entertainment and community engagement for residents of all ages.

Worship in the Park is one of several events planned throughout the Juneteenth weekend celebration in Camden. Other scheduled activities include the Juneteenth Parade, a Kid’s Block Party, and a Greek Picnic, all aimed at commemorating the historic holiday while celebrating community heritage and culture.

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City officials encourage residents to participate in the weekend’s events and take advantage of the opportunities to connect with neighbors and local leaders.

For additional information about Worship in the Park or other Juneteenth activities, contact the City of Camden at (870) 837-5500 or follow @camdenjuneteenth on social media for updates and event details.