Little Rock, Ark. – Strong storms could bring damaging winds and hail up to one inch in diameter across southern and central Arkansas through Thursday, as a broad area of instability sweeps across the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Little Rock, a Slight Risk for severe thunderstorms covers areas from Texarkana to El Dorado and up through Hot Springs and Pine Bluff. The primary threats include wind gusts of up to 60 mph and hail the size of quarters. A Very Low tornado risk remains, though isolated cells could still produce brief spin-ups.
Cities including Arkadelphia, Camden, and Mena may experience the strongest storms during the late afternoon and early evening hours. The storms are expected to develop in clusters, which may cause brief periods of heavy rain and sudden wind shifts on roadways. Residents are advised to secure outdoor items, monitor local alerts, and avoid unnecessary travel during peak storm hours.
By Friday, the severe threat lessens to a Marginal Risk, with lingering showers and isolated thunder possible across northern and central Arkansas, including Conway and Jonesboro.
Storm warnings may be issued on short notice, and residents are encouraged to keep weather radios and phone alerts enabled overnight.
