Little Rock, Ark. – Thunderstorms with the potential for damaging winds and large hail are threatening central and northern Arkansas this evening, prompting a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for 11 counties through 7 p.m. Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Little Rock, the watch remains in effect for White, Jackson, Lawrence, Randolph, Woodruff, Cleburne, Fulton, Independence, Izard, Sharp, and Stone counties. Strong storms are expected to develop rapidly, with the risk of 60+ mph wind gusts and quarter-size hail in isolated cells.
Communities from Searcy to Pocahontas, Batesville to Mountain View, are advised to secure outdoor objects, monitor alerts, and avoid open areas as storms roll through. U.S. Highway 67, U.S. Route 167, and other regional corridors could see sudden low visibility and slick conditions.
Residents in cities including Heber Springs, Walnut Ridge, and Newport should charge devices and stay weather-aware as storms may intensify with little warning. If outdoors, move to sturdy shelter immediately.
The severe threat is expected to taper off by early evening, but additional watches may be issued if instability lingers. Stay tuned to local alerts for updated warnings.
