Little Rock, Ark. – Strong storms are moving into central and southern Arkansas Saturday morning, prompting a Severe Thunderstorm Watch across 35 counties through 3 p.m., with damaging winds and hail the main threats.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, the watch—designated as No. 316—covers a wide swath of the state, including Pulaski, Jefferson, Garland, and Union counties. Thunderstorms are expected to intensify late morning into early afternoon, potentially bringing wind gusts over 60 mph and isolated quarter-size hail.
Areas from Little Rock to El Dorado, and westward toward Polk and Sevier counties, could see rapid changes in weather conditions. Travel along I-30, Highway 65, and rural roads may become hazardous during downpours or in storm bursts.
Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, monitor weather alerts, and be ready to take shelter in case warnings are issued. Power outages are possible, particularly in heavily wooded or rural regions.
The watch remains in effect until 3 p.m. CDT, with additional advisories or warnings likely as storms track eastward through the day.
