Little Rock, Arkansas – Residents across Arkansas face a volatile stretch of weather today as strong thunderstorms capable of 60 to 80 mph wind gusts and large hail up to golf ball size develop this afternoon before a sharp blast of cold air drops temperatures into the 20s by Monday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Little Rock, storms are expected to develop Sunday afternoon and continue into the evening, with the greatest severe weather potential across central and eastern Arkansas, including Little Rock, Conway, Pine Bluff, and West Memphis. The primary threats include damaging winds, large hail, and isolated tornado potential.
Even outside thunderstorms, strong gradient winds will sweep across the state. Wind gusts of 35 to 50 mph are expected across much of Arkansas, with the strongest winds likely across northwest Arkansas near Fayetteville, Harrison, and Fort Smith.
Travel along major corridors including Interstates 30, 40, and 55 could become hazardous during storms as sudden downpours, lightning, and powerful wind bursts move through.
Once the cold front passes overnight, temperatures will plunge rapidly. Many communities across Arkansas, including Little Rock and Russellville, could wake up Monday morning with lows near 24° to 29°, with even colder readings in northern Arkansas.
Another round of freezing temperatures is possible Tuesday morning before conditions begin moderating later in the week. Officials urge residents to secure outdoor items today and ensure multiple ways to receive weather warnings as storms develop.
