Little Rock, Arkansas – Strong thunderstorms could disrupt the late-day commute across northeast Arkansas, with wind gusts up to 60 mph and hail reaching one inch in diameter expected to develop by mid-afternoon Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Little Rock, a marginal risk for severe weather is in place for areas including Jonesboro, Batesville, and West Memphis, with storms expected to intensify between mid-afternoon and early evening. The primary threats include damaging straight-line winds and large hail, though an isolated tornado cannot be ruled out.
Communities along U.S. Highway 67, Interstate 555, and portions of Interstate 40 in eastern Arkansas could see brief but intense storms capable of reducing visibility and creating hazardous driving conditions. Wind gusts near 60 mph may down small limbs or cause isolated power outages, especially in exposed rural areas.
Residents are encouraged to secure loose outdoor items, monitor alerts, and be ready to move indoors quickly if warnings are issued. Schools and after-school activities across the region may need to adjust schedules depending on storm timing.
The severe threat is expected to weaken by early evening, but additional updates or warnings could be issued if storms intensify more than anticipated.
