Little Rock, AR – Warm temperatures across Arkansas Sunday are setting the stage for strong to severe thunderstorms later this afternoon, particularly across the southeastern third of the state.
According to the National Weather Service in Little Rock, storms are expected to begin developing around 3 p.m. and continue through midnight as a cold front pushes through the region. Areas including Pine Bluff, El Dorado, Monticello, and West Memphis are under a Level 2 out of 5 risk for severe weather.
Primary hazards include damaging wind gusts and large hail, with isolated tornadoes not completely ruled out. The storms will initiate along the I-30/I-57 corridor and shift southeastward as the evening progresses.
Highs Sunday will range from the low 70s in Fayetteville and Jonesboro to near 80°F in El Dorado and Texarkana. Winds may be gusty throughout the day, increasing ahead of the front.
Residents in the affected areas should secure loose outdoor items, monitor weather alerts, and prepare for potential power outages. The NWS advises travelers to remain cautious on roads during storm activity, especially as night falls.
